HISTORY 



New Jeksey, 



FROM THE EARLIEST SETTLEMENTS TO 
THE PRESENT TIME. 



DESIGNED FOB 



:^ommon Schools, ^tattcmics, ^^oUcgcs, families and llibrarijcs 



-" ' BY ,-, 

jf R.^"SYPHEli AND E.^ A. APGAR. 




PHILADELPHIA ^ 

J. B. LIPPING OTT & CO. 

1870. 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1869, by 

J. R. SYPIIER AND E. A APGAE, 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the District of 

New Jersey. 



LIPPINCOTT'S PRESS, 



<. 









PREFACE. 



The inhabitants of a State should have a general 
knowledge of its history. The story of the pioneer set- 
tlers in an unexplored wilderness, their mastery of the 
] elements, their struggle for personal rights, their mainte- 
nance of the principles of English liberty, their attain- 
ment of national independence and the establishment of 
a commonwealth, are subjects that should command the 
interest of every citizen. When and how the resources 
of the State were developed, when public improvements 
were constructed and public institutions were erected — 
how, from small beginnings, settlements grew into power- 
ful manufacturing and trading communities, and how the 
wealth and prosperity of the commonwealth were attained, 
are questions worthy the attention of a people living in 
the enjoyment of these priceless boons transmitted from 
an ancestry, who, through much suffering and unre- 
counted toil, struggled from poverty and insignificance up 
to wealth and an honorable fame. This book was com- 
piled to make the acquisition of this knowledge eaSy 
for every citizen, and in the hope that the rising 
youth in the State will, in their school-days, be made 
familiar with the history of their own inheritances, and 
be thereby incited to foUbv/ the examples of industry 



4 PREFACE. 

and skill, and to emulate the virtue and patriotism, of 
the early settlers and the fathers of the Commonwealth. 
Much that is interesting^ in the annals of the State has 
been necessarily excluded, though nothing that is essential 
to a full comprehension of its history has been omitted. 

The questions at the foot of each page are intended to 
guide the teacher, who will readily multiply them to 
meet the Avants of his class. 

The tables in the Appendix are arranged for reference, 
and epitomize the history of the State. 
Trenton, October 29, 1869. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

PAQE 

Early Settlements 9 

CHAPTER II. 
Division of the Province — East and West Jersey 20 

CHAPTER III. 
The Province of West Jersey 33 

CHAPTER IV. 

The Royal Government Established— Cornbury's Administration... 46 

CHAPTER V. 

Early Legislation-Government Separated from New York 57 

CHAPTER VI. 
Land Titles — Frontier Wars — A Colonial Union Proposed 66 

CHAPTER VIL 

French-and-Indian War — Troops Sent — Braddock's Defeat — De- 
fence against Indian Invasion 74 

CHAPTER VIII. 
Close of the French-and-Indian War — Military Action of New 

Jersey 81 

1 * 5 



6 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTEK IX. 

PAGE 

"Taxation without Eepresentation is Tyranny" 88 

CHAPTER X. 
The Eight of Government Assumed by the People— Preparations 

for War 100 

CHAPTER XI. 

The Declaration of Independence— The New Government 114 

CHAPTER XII. 
The Revolutionary War — Campaign of 1776 — Tlie State Overrun 

by the Enemy 124 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Campaign of 1777 — Battle of Princeton — Enemy Driven from the 

State — Noble Conduct of the State Militia 135 

CHAPTER XIV. 

British Foraging parties — March across the State — Battle of Mon- 
mouth 150 

CHAPTER XV. 
Tory Marauders — Village Burned and Inhabitants Murdered — 

Destitution in Camp — Battle of Springfield 160 

CHAPTER XVI. 
Revolt in Camp — End of the War — Contributions of the State and 

Sufierings of the Inhabitants 173 

CHAPTER XVII. 

The Constitution of the United States Adopted 183 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

The State Government Organized 187 

CHAPTER XIX. 

The Condition of the State of New Jersev 201 



CONTENTS. 7 

CHAPTER XX. 

PAGE 

Education 205 

CHAPTER XXI. 
Public Improvements 219 

CHAPTER XXII. 
Natural Resources — Manufactures 224 

CHAPTER XXIII. 
The Rebellion 238 

APPENDIX. 
Table I. — Counties in New Jersey 251 

II. — Table of the Governors of the Colonies, of the Pro- 
vinces and of the State 252 

III. — Table of the Principal Officers of the United States 
from New Jersey since the Adoption of the Con- 
stitution 255 

IV. — Railroads in New Jersey 256 

V. — Canals in New Jersey 257 

VI. — Agricultural Products of New Jersey in 1868 257 

VII. — A Chronological Table of Important Events in the 
History of New Jersey, from the Discovery of the 
Delaware in 1609 until 1869 258 



HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 



CHAPTER I. 

Early Settlements — Government Established. 




PALISADES ON THE HUDSON. 



1. New Jersey is bounded on the north by New York; 
on the east by Hudson river and the Atlantic ocean ; on the 
south by Delaware bay ; and on the west by Delaware river. 
The greatest length of tlie State, from the north-west point to 
Cape May, is about 168 miles ; the greatest width is about 
60 miles ; the area is 7576 square miles. 

2. This territory was first visited by European mariners 

Chapter I. — 1. Bound New Jersey. State its dimensions. 

2. When did Europeans first visit this territory? When and by 
whom was the first settlement made on Manhattan Island ? Where, 
when and by whom were the first settlements made in New Jersey? 

9 



10 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

in 1609, when Captain Henry Hudson, sailing on an ex- 
l)lo)-ino- expedition to America under the patronage of the 
Dutch East India Company, touched at the mouth of the 
bay, but, finding shoal water, withdrew ; and sailing north- 
ward, entered the mouth of the great river which is now 
called Hudson, in honor of the discoverer. Hudson's men 
established a trading-post on Manhattan Island ; they also 
made small settlements at Bergen and at other points in New 
Jersey as early as 1617. In 1621 these were transferred to 
the West India Company of the United Netherlands— a cor- 
poration formed in Holland to monopolize trade in America. 
In 1628 this company took possession of the whole country 
discovered by Captain Hudson, which included all the ter- 
ritory lying between Delaware bay, called South River, and 
the Hudson, called North River. The possessions of the 
company w^ere named the " New Netherlands." This territory 
was at that time inhabited by small tribes of Indians, or parts 
of the great tribes, that, occupied the country between the 
lakes on the north and the Susquehanna river. 

3. A colony arrived in 1623, built New Amsterdam on 
Manhattan Island, and sent Captain Cornelius Jacobus May, 
with a party of adventurers, to the "South" River, under 
instructions to form a settlement and to explore the country 
on the borders of the river. The commander of this expedi- 
tion sailed into the Delaware, gave his own name to Cape 
May, and the southern cape he called Cornelius, which 
name it bore until the arrival of the Swedes, when it was 
named Cape Henlopen. He erected Fort Nassau near where 
Gloucester now stands, a few miles below Camden, which was 
the first settlement made by Europeans on the shores of the 
Delaware. The fort was soon abandoned. The place was 



3. "When and by wliom were the first attempts made to settle on tlie 
Delaware? 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 11 

several times visited by exploring parties, but no permanent 
colony was established there by the Dutch. 

4. The Swedes founded a colony on the west bank of the 
Delaware in 1638. Some of the pioneers crossed the river 
and established themselves at Swedesboro' and at other points 
below Camden. Attempts were made by parties from Con- 
necticut and other parts of New England to settle on the 
eastern bank of the Delaware, but the settlers Avere driven 
away by the Dutch, who claimed the whole country between 
Connecticut and Virginia, which they named "New Nether- 
lands." Several plantations were founded by Dutch patroons 
near Communipaw about the year 1638. These were aban- 
doned in 1651, and reoccupied in 1661, when a ferry was 
established to Manhattan Island. The first settlement at 
Hoboken was made in 1656. 

5. Great Britian conquered the New Netherlands in 1664, 
and claimed all the lands on the Atlantic coast, from the 
French possessions on the north, southward to the Spanish 
possessions in Florida. On the 20th of March, 1664, King 
Charles II. issued a grant to his brother, the Duke of York, 
for that part of his American possessions lying between New 
England and Maryland. This included New York, Penn- 
sylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. As soon as the duke 
had obtained this grant, and before he had been placed in 
possession of the property, he sold that portion of it which 
afterward became New Jersey to Lord Berkeley and Sir 
George Carteret. 

6. The new proprietors prepared and published a plan of 

4. Who founded the first jjeriuanent colony on the Delaware? 
What was this country called? Where were early settlements made? 

5. When and by whom was it conquered? How did the king of 
England dispose of the land ? What did the duke do with part of it? 

6. What did the new proprietors do? What were some of the pro- 
visions of the fundamental law? 



12 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

government, something in the nature of a fundamental law 
or constitution, called the "Concessions and Agreements of 
the Lords' Proprietors of the Province of New Jersey, with 
all and every of the adventurers and all such as shall settle 
or plant there." This constitution was dated February 10, 
1664. It provided that all who were or should become sub- 
jects of the king of England should be admitted to plant 
and to become freemen of the Province; that the people 
should be secured in the enjoyment of property; that full 
toleration in religion should be allowed. No person should 
be in any Avay molested or punished, or called into question 
for any difference of opinion or practice in matters of relig- 
ion, but all might freely and fully enjoy their judgments 
and consciences in matters of religious faith. 

7. The government of the Province was to be administered 
by the governor and Council and General Assembly. The 
governor was to be appointed by the proprietors. The mem- 
bers of Council should be selected by the governor, and 
should not be less than six nor more than twelve in number. 
The General Assembly formed the legislative branch of the 
government. It was composed of the governor and Council 
and twelve representatives chosen by the freemen of the 
Province. 

8. The first Assembly was to divide the Province and to 
provide for an annual election on the 1st of January, at 
which time each division should choose two representatives, 
and the majority of these representatives, with the governor 
and the Council, should form the General Assembly of the 
Province. 

9. The General Assembly was authorized to appoint the 

7. How was the government to be administered? 

8. How was the General Assembly formed ? 

9. What was the Assembly authorized to do? What had the As- 
sembly power to do? 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 13 

time for its own meeting and adjournment, and to determine 
the number required to form a quorum, provided that num- 
ber shoukl not be less than one-third of tlie wliole ; to enact 
laws necessary for the government of the Province ; to estab- 
lish courts, and to determine the limits, powers and jurisdic- 
tions of these ; to fix the number of officers for each court 
and their respective salaries and fees. The Assembly had 
power to levy taxes equally on all the lands, except the 
lands of the proprietors ; to provide for the defence of the 
Province ; to pass naturalization laws ; to provide for the 
maintenance of the governor and for the defraying of the 
necessary expenses of the government. 

10. The governor was commander-in-chief of the military 
forces. In case of his death or removal, the president of the 
Council became the chief executive. The fundamental laws 
for the Province secured freedom of conscience and worship 
to every one who should conduct himself as a peaceable citi- 
zen, provided justice to be administered by tribunals erected 
under public authority, and gave an unlimited privilege of 
appeal or petition. 

11. On the same day that this instrument of government 
was signed, Philip Carteret, the brother of one of the pro- 
prietors, received a commission as first governor of Ncav 
Jersey. He made immediate preparations to go to his Prov- 
ince, and in August, 1665, accompanied by a number of 
persons who were disposed to become settlers, sailed from 
England. This company of pioneers entered Newark bay 
and landed on the banks of the Passaic, at a place to which 
they gave the name of Elizabeth, in honor of the lady of Sir 
George Carteret. Governor Carteret found four families es- 



10. What is said of tlie governor? What was secured ? 

11. Who was first governor? Wlien and how did he come to the 
Province? Where did tlie governor make the first settlement? 

2 



14 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

tablished at this place, aud he resolved to settle there with 
them. 

12. Colonel Nichols at this time Avas governor of New 
York, and had been directed by the Duke of York to 
assume the direction of affairs throughout the whole of the 
country that had been conveyed to him by the king's grant. 
Nichols had not been informed of the sale of New Jersey to 
Berkeley and Carteret, and therefore supposed himself to be 
in authority over that portion of country. He regarded 
Philip Carteret and his party of settlers as intruders and 
usurpers. 

13. Governor Carteret without delay entered upon the dis- 
charge of his duties, and sent messengers abroad to publish 
the " Concessions" and to set forth the advantages that were 
offered, both in the government and in the fortunate situa- 
tion of the country. These reports Avere received with great 
favor, and many people moved to New Jersey. Numerous 
emigrants came from the neighboring settlements and from 
England, and the population increased rapidly. The gov- 
ernor appointed his Council,* and proceeded to organize his 
government. 

14. The first duty of the governor was to establish rules 
for the division and sale of lands. These rules provided 
that all lands should be divided into general lots ; one- 
seventh of each lot was to be reserved to the proprietors, 

* Captain Nicholas Verlett, Daniel Pierce, Eobert Bond, Samuel 
Edsall, Robert Vanquellen and William Pardon were the members 
of the first Council. . 



12. How did the governor of New York receive these immigrants? 

13. What did Governor Carteret do to secure settlers? What was 
the effect of this? 

14. What rules were established? How was the land divided? 
How granted to settlers ? 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 15 

and the remainder to be conveyed to individuals or com- 
panies who chose to purchase. A surveyor-general was 
appointed, who was commanded to lay out the lauds in 
accordance with these rules. He was required to inform 
the chief secretary or register of the name of the grantee, 
the date of the warrant, the number of acres and the situa- 
tion of lands granted ; and his survey was to be entered by 
the register in a book prepared for that purpose. A yearly 
rent of one penny, or one halfpenny, according to the value 
of the lands, was to be paid by the purchasers to the pi-o- 
prietors or their heirs. The first payment was to be made 
in March, 1670. 

15. Settlements had been established at Shrewsbury in 
1664, and at Middletown in 1666, under grants from Gov- 
ernor Nichols, who supposed he had authority to dispose of 
the lands of New Jersey. This afterv/ard became a fruitful 
source of difficulties between the government and the in- 
habitants, 

16. In 1666 an association was formed by a company 
of persons in New England for the purpose of establishing a 
settlement in the Province of New Jersey. This association 
adopted as part of a fundamental " Agreement," a declara- 
tion that none should be admitted freemen within their town, 
on the bank of the Passaic river, except such as were mem- 
bers of some Congregational church ; nor should any but 
such church members have any vote in any elections. One 
of the articles of this "Agreement" was as follows: "We 
shall, with care and diligence, provide for the maintenance 
of the purity of religion professed in the Congregational 
churches." The pioneers of this association settled on the 
Passaic river near Elizabeth, on the 17th of May, 1666, 



15. What settlements were made by the authority of Gov. Nichols? 
U). How and when was Newark settled? 



16 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

and their settlement was the beginning of the city of 
Newark. 

17. A period of three years elapsed before the government 
projected by the new proprietors was fully organized. On 
the 7th of April, 1668, Governor Carteret issued a proclama- 
tion requiring the freeholders of each town to choose two 
representatives to the General Assembly, who should be citi- 
zens of the district from which they were elected. In obedi- 
ence to this proclamation the election was held, and the first 
Legislature of New Jersey assembled at Elizabeth on the 26th 
of May, 1668. At this meeting of the Legislature, represent- 
atives were present from Bergen, Newark, Elizabeth, Middle- 
town and Shrewsbury. The session continued four days and 
was harmonious throughout. An act was passed for the pun- 
ishment of crimes ; another providing for the expenses of the 
government, and fixing the annual meeting of the Legislature 
on the first Tuesday of November, and the elections on the 
1st of January preceding. The Assembly authorized the 
governor to call an extra session of the Legislature whenever 
necessity should require, and then adjourned to the 3d of 
November following. 

18. The second meeting of the Assembly took place, in 
accordance with the adjournment, on the 3d of November, 
but the harmony and good-feeling that had prevailed in the 
first session w^cre not found in this. The session was short. 
Nothing was done for the interests of the Province or of the 
people. On the third day the representatives sent a mes- 
sage to the governor and Council, declaring themselves dis- 
satisfied with the organization of the General Assembly. On 



17. When and how was the organization of the government com- 
pleted? Where and when did the first Legislature assemble? How 
was the Province represented? Wliat acts were passed? 

IS. What is said of the second meeting of the Assembly? 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 17 

the day following they adjourned, and seven years elapsed 
before another Legislature was convened. 

19. The settlements at Shrewsbury and Middletown at an 
early period refused to recognize the authority of the new 
proprietors ; and when the time approached for the payment 
of the quit-rents, in March, 1670, they declared their open 
hoocility to the government. They asserted that they had 
purchased their lands from the Indians under permission 
from Governor Nichols, and had fully paid for them. Gov- 
ernor Carteret endeavored to uphold his authority and to 
enforce the laws of the Province. The people were urged to 
take out patents for their lands under the new government, 
and were warned against purchasing lands under any other 
title than that given by the proprietors. 

20. The settlers who had come in under the grants from Gov- 
ernor Nichols resolved to form an independent government. 
Deputies were elected in the several towns, and the members 
so chosen convened at Elizabeth on the 14th of May, 1672, 
and claimed to be the true legislative body of the Prov- 
ince. James Carteret was elected governor by this Legisla- 
ture. He also set up a claim to the government of the 
Province under pretence of a grant from his father, but he 
persistently refused to show his commission. The authority 
of the usurpers extended over the northern part of the Prov- 
ince, but did not reach to the settlements on the Delaware. 
The old governor and Council found it utterly impossible to 
enforce their authority, and Governor Philip Carteret there- 
fore returned to England to lay the matter before the pro- 
prietors. John Berry was appointed to serve as deputy-go v- 

19. Who refused to recognize tlie autliority of the government, and 
why ? 

20. Wliat did the settlers do? How far did this movement ex- 
tend ? 

2 » B 



18 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

ernor during his absence, but he soon followed the governor 
to England. 

21. The condition of aftairs in the Province was laid before 
the Duke of York, and he addressed a letter to Governor 
Lovelace, of New York, on the 25th of November, 1672, 
directing him to take notice of the disturbance in Ncav 
Jersey, and to make known to all persons concerned iu it, 
that the duke would countenance nothing which would in 
the least impair the government of the proprietors. Governor 
Lovelace was further instructed to give aid and assistance to 
the jjroprietary authorities for the restoration of order. The 
grants under authority of Nichols were declared by the duke 
to be void. 

22. A king's commission was sent to Deputy-Governor 
Berry, confirming his appointment and commanding all per- 
sons to give obedience to his authority. The proprietors 
also sent to Governor Berry an explanation of their "Con- 
cessions," which made several important changes in the 
original constitution. The power of the executive was ex- 
tended in the appointment of officers of the Province, both 
civil and military. It was also provided that in all General 
Assemblies the governor and his Council were to sit by them- 
selves, and the deputies or representatives Avere to form a 
separate chamber. Instructions were given to the governor 
and Council directing that lands should be purchased from 
the Indians only in the names of the proprietors. The final 
payment of all quit-rents was postponed three years from 
1673. 

23. Lord Berkeley, one of the proprietors, had become 
discouraged at the management of affairs in New Jersey, and 

21. How was the difficulty settled? 

22. AVho was commissioned governor? What changes were made in 
the Concessions? 

23. AVhat cliange was made in the proprietorship? 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 19 

therefore, on the 18th of March, 1673, sold his one-half in- 
terest in the Province for less than $5000. John Fenwick 
and Edward Byllinge, two English Quakers, were the pur- 
chasers. 

24. A dispute arose between the new proprietors about the 
division of their property, and William Penn, who after- 
ward became the founder of Pennsylvania, was chosen arbi- 
trator to settle the difficulty, and succeeded to the satisfaction 
of all parties interested. Fenwick sailed from London in 
1675, in the ship " Griffith," with his family and a small 
company of Quakers. This was the first English vessel that 
came to New Jersey with immigrants. The party sailed up 
the Delaware bay, and entering a creek, landed on its banks 
three miles and a half from the Delaware. This creek, and 
the settlement founded on it, Fenwick named Salem. This 
was the first English settlement permanently established in 
West Jersey. 

24. What dispute arose and how was it settled? When and by 
whom was a new settlement made? 



CHAPTER II. 

Division of the Province — East and West Jersey. 




TUE HOME OF AN EARLY SETTLER. 

1. The war between Holland and England, which broke 
out in 1672, extended to America. A squadron of Dutch 
vessels appeared before New York in July, 1673, and de- 
manded the surrender of the English authorities at that post. 
Manhattan Island was surrendered without resistance, and 
the fall of New York was immediately folloAved by the sub- 
jection of the surrounding country, including New Jersey. 
The officers of this Province were summoned to meet the 
commander of the Dutch fleet on Manhattan Island and 
take an oath of allegiance. 

2. The Dutch rule was, however, of short duration. On 

Chapter II. — 1. When and by whom was the country reconquered ? 
What wa.s demanded of the public officers of New Jersey ? 

2. How was the country regained by England? Who was appointed 
governor ? 
20 



DIVISION OF THE PROVINCE. 21 

the 9th of February, 1674, a treaty of peace was concluded 
between England and Holland, under which New Jersey 
again became an English Province, and the title of its pro- 
prietors was reconfirmed. Edmund Andross was appointed 
governor of New York, and Philip Carteret returned to 
America as governor of New Jersey. 

3. Governor Carteret met with no opposition from the set- 
tlers. He published his instructions at Bergen on the 6th of 
November, 1674, in the presence of his Council and commis- 
sioners from most of the towns in the Province, and thus re- 
sumed the reins of authority with the aj^probation of his 
people. The General Assembly was convened on the 5th of 
November, 1675. Eight members of Council, including the 
governor, were present, and fourteen representatives from the 
towns. Laws were enacted at this session for the defence of 
the Province, providing for the organization and arming of 
military companies and the erection of forts. County courts 
were established, and a treasurer was appointed. An act of 
amnesty was passed, granting full and free pardon to all per- 
sons who had been guilty of any offence against the laws of 
the Province. 

4. On the 1st of July, 1676, the Province was divided 
into two portions, to be called East and West New Jersey. 
Philip Carteret was retained as governor of East New Jer- 
sey, Having completed the organization of his govern- 
ment, Carteret endeavored to establish a commerce for his 
Province, and attempted to open a port at Elizabeth, where 
vessels might enter from and clear to any ports in the 
world. In 1679 he issued a proclamation, declaring Amboy 

3, How was Governor Carteret received ? What is said of the meet- 
ing and acts of the Assembly ? 

4. When and how was New Jersey divided ? What did Governor 
Carteret endeavor to do? How were the efforts to establish commerce 
resisted ? 



22 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

to be a free port of entxy to all vessels trading to East Jersey. 
The first trader to the Province was a vessel from Barbadoes, 
which entered the port at Aniboy. This circumstance called 
into action the interference of Governor Andross of New 
York, who was always ready to take advantage of any pro- 
vocation to meddle with the government of his neighbors. 
He sent messengers to Am boy to take possession of the Bar- 
badoes vessel and bring it to New York, where the master 
was com})elled to pay duties. 

5. The Assembly of East Jersey entered a strong protest 
against this procedure, and offered a premium of £150 for the 
encouragement of vessels to enter the ports of East Jersey, not- 
withstanding the opposition of the governor of New York. In 
March, 1G79, Andross directed a communication to Governor 
Carteret, requesting him to cease from the exercise of any 
authority until his power should be properly acknowledged 
by the authorities on Manhattan Island. Governor Carteret 
called a meeting of his Council and of the most eminent men 
in his Province, and after full consultation with these, replied 
to the demands made by Andross. He declared that his 
authority was not founded ujjon any presumption or pre- 
tence, but upon the grant from his royal highness and the 
commands of the king of England ; and that he and his 
Council and the people felt bound to the government of Sir 
George Carteret, and were resolved to maintain it by force 
if necessary. 

6. Andross issued a proclamation dissolving the govern- 
ment of New Jersey, and required that all persons should 
submit to him as a representative of the king's authority. 
Governor Carteret replied in a counter-proclamation, that 

5. What action did the Assembly take on this subject? Eelate tlie 
controversy between Governor Andross and Governor Carteret. 

6. What action did Governor Andross take? How did Governor 
Carteret reply ? 



DIVISION OF THE FROVINCE. 23 

his authority had been established in i^ursuance of his majes- 
ty's commission and command, and that it could not be sur- 
rendered without the same command ; and that the people of 
his Province were resolved to live and die with the name of 
true subjects, and not traitors. 

7. Sir George Carteret, the proprietor of East Jersey, died 
in the year 1679, and the Province descended by will to 
trustees, to be sold for the benefit of his creditors. His 
widow, Elizabeth Carteret, became proprietress, as guar- 
dian for her grandson. The death of the proprietor 
caused no immediate change in the management of j^ublic 
affairs. 

8. On the 30th of April, 1680, Axidross sent an armed 
force into New Jersey, which seized Governor Philip Car- 
teret and carried him a prisoner to New York, where he 
was detained until the 27th of May. A court convened 
for his trial, and declared him innocent of all the charges 
brought against him by the officious Andross. Yet, not- 
withstanding his acquittal, Andross declared that he should 
not again enter the Province of New Jersey until he gave 
security not to assume any authority or jurisdiction there, 
either civil or military. 

9. Having thus disposed of Carteret, Andross attempted 
to take possession of his Province. He appeared at the 
General Assembly, which convened on the 2d of June, 1680, 
and informed that body that he had brought the king's let- 
ters patent, under the great seal of England, to his highness, 
the Duke of York, and also the duke's commission to him- 
self; and that these gave him authority over the government 

7. When did Sir George Carteret die ? What disposition was made 
of his property in New Jersey? 

8. What outrage was committed by Governor Andross? 

9. How did he attempt to take possession of tlie Province ? What 
reply did the Assembly make to his demands? 



24 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

of New Jersey. He recommended the passage of an act 
confirming all former proceedings in the Province, and de- 
manded the acknowledgment of the authority of the Assembly 
of New York over that of New Jersey. The Assembly re- 
plied with boldness, that they were the representatives of the 
freeholders of the Province; that they had their authority 
from a royal grant ; that the great charter of England was 
the only rule of safety to freeborn Englishmen, and that they 
could acknowledge no other authority than that derived 
from the grants to the pro^^rietary government of their Prov- 
ince. This firmness on the part of the Assembly completely 
defeated the designs of Andross. 

10. In September of this year a communication was re- 
ceived from Lady Elizabeth Carteret, containing an absolute 
command to her government not to take notice of any com- 
missions, warrants or orders from Sir Edmund Andross. 
She also directed that an account of the charges and damages 
sustained by her Province in consequence of the usurpation 
of Andross should be drawn up and sent to England. A 
communication was sent to Andross from the duke, com- 
manding him to desist from any further interference with the 
government of New Jersey, and declaring that Philip Car- 
teret Avas the recognized executive of East New Jersey. In 
order to prevent any further troubles between these neighbor- 
ing Provinces, the Duke of York authorized his attorneys, 
on the 6th of September, 1680, to prepare a full and com- 
plete conveyance of all his rights and interests in the gov- 
ernment of East New Jersey unto the proprietors, and notice 
of this complete transfer was sent to the governor of New 
York. 

11. The contest with the authorities at New York had 



10. How was the difBculty finally settled? 

11. What dispute arose between tlie Assembly and the governor? 
How was it ended ? 



DIVISION OF THE PROVINCE. 25 

prevented the people of New Jersey from giving any atten- 
tion to the alterations made in their constitution by the ex- 
planation of the "Concessions" brought from England by 
Governor Carteret. In October, 1681, the Assembly con- 
vened at Elizabeth, and at once entered upon the discus- 
sion of this subject. The representatives of the people 
declared that the proprietors had no right to change the 
" Concessions," and that the changes were contrary to ex- 
press stipulations and grants. The governor and Council 
insisted that the alterations had become necessary, and were 
warranted by the change of circumstances and the times. A 
violent dispute arose, which was terminated by a procla- 
mation from Governor Carteret, dissolving the House of 
Deputies. 

12. This was an exercise of authority under the new inter- 
pretation of the constitution. The deputies unanimously 
sent a protest against the act, as being contrary to the " Con- 
cessions" and an innovation on the government. According 
to the original constitution, the Assembly had power to de- 
termine its own meetings and adjournments. 

13. The trustees under the will of the late Sir George Car- 
teret now offered the Province of East Jersey for sale, but no 
private purchasers presenting themselves, it was resolved to 
put up the whole proprietary interests at public auction. 
Fortunately for the settlers, William Penn, wuth eleven asso- 
ciates, became the purchasers.* 

14. These associates sold their entire interests to James, 

* The original proprietors were : William Penn, Robert West, 
Thomas Eudyard, Samuel Groome, Thomas Hart, Robert Mew, Am- 
brose Riggs, John Hayward, Hugh Hartshorne, Clement Plumstead, 
Thomas Cooper, Thomas Wilcox. 

12. How did the deputies receive this exercise of authority ? 

13. What change was made in the proprietorship of the Province? 

14. Wlint Airtlier rh;iiiL!e was matlo? 



26 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Earl of Perth, John Drumond, Robert Barclay, David Bar- 
clay, Robert Gordon, Arent Somnans, Gowen Laurie, Ed- 
ward Bylliuge, James Braine, William. Gibson, James Bar- 
ker, Robert Turner, Thomas Warne. 

15. The deeds of conveyance were dated the 1st and 2d of 
February, 1682. Each of these purchasers soon afterward 
sold one-half of his respective interest to a new associate, and 
thus the number of the projjrietors was doubled. Though the 
original proprietors were all of the Society of Friends, in 
the subsequent division of the Province members of other 
sects were admitted to the proprietaryship. The conveyance 
to the new proprietors was dated 14th of March, 1682, and 
was signed by his royal highness, the Duke of York. On 
the 3d of November, 1683, the king issued a letter, in which 
he confirmed the grant of the Duke of York to the twenty- 
four proprietors of East Jersey. 

16. The new proprietors appointed Robert Barclay gov- 
ernor. He Avas a native of Scotland, and one of the most 
eminent of the associates of William Penu. He was distin- 
guished both for his learning and for his religious piety. He 
accepted the appointment under the express stipulation that 
he would not be required to go to the Province, and that 
he should have power to appoint a deputy. Thomas Rud- 
yard, one of the proprietors, was appointed, by Barclay, 
deputy-governor. He departed for the Province in com- 
pany with Samuel Groome, another of the proprietors, who 
had been commissioned receiver and surveyor-general. 

17. Governor Barclay sent a letter with his deputy to 
" the planters and inhabitants of the Province of East Jersey 

15. AVhen were the deeds of conveyance dated? What did the 
new proprietors do ? 

16. Who was appointed governor? What is said of Governor Bar- 
clay? Who was appointed deputy-governor? 

17. What message did Governor Barclay send to tlie people? 



DIVISION OF THE PROVINCE. 27 

in America," inwliicli he stated that it was the desire of him- 
self and his associates to promote the welfare of the people ; 
that they held themselves obliged by the laws of the country 
and the just laws of men, as well as their own interest, to use 
all proper means to render the plantation pi'osperous. Upon 
his arrival in the Province, Rudyard appointed six persons 
as liis Council, in the presence of whom he was sworn into 
office as deputy -governor.* 

18. Before the arrival of Governor Rudyard, the Assem- 
bly was convened. It met on the 1st of March, 1682, at 
Elizabeth. Two subsequent sessions were held in the same 
year, and important laws were passed. Four counties were 
erected — Bergen, Essex, Middlesex and Monmouth. For 
each of these a high-sheriff was commissioned, and the boun- 
daries were defined. 

19. Acts were passed reorganizing and establishing the 
judiciary department of the government. Courts which 
had been erected without the authority of the Assembly 
were abolished. One general court for the whole Province 
was established, called "The Court of Common Right." To 
this court appeals might be taken from any inferior tribunal 
in all actions or suits for £5 or upward. It had jurisdiction 
in all capital, criminal and civil causes of equity, and causes 
triable at common law. It was to consist of twelve members, 
and hold four terms, at Elizabeth. County courts Avere 
authorized in each county within the Province, in which 
trials by jury were allowed. 

20. The Assembly revised the criminal and j^enal code. 

* The members of the Council were Lewis Morris, John Berry, 
John Palmer, William Sandford, Lawrence Andross and Benjamin 
Price. 

18. What did the Assembly do? 

19. How were the courts established? 

20. What is said of tlie criminal code? 



28 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Capital punishment was limited to a much smaller number 
of cases than under the former laws. It was provided that 
in all capital or criminal cases there should be a grand in- 
quest, and that twelve men of the neighborhood should try 
the offender. All persons arrested should be bailable by suf- 
ficient sureties. The estates of murderers, after all debts 
were paid, were to be divided, one-third to be given to the 
heirs of the sufferers and two-thirds to the heirs of the crimi- 
nal. Penalties were prescribed against profane swearing, 
drunkenness and Sabbath breaking. 

21. A difficulty arose between the deputy-governor and 
the surveyor-general. Rudyard was appointed secretary 
and register, and Gawen Lawrie, a Quaker and one of 
the proprietors, was appointed deputy-governor. His com- 
mission was dated July, 1683. Lawrie had long been in- 
terested in West Jersey, and was familiar with the affairs 
of the Province. He was recommended by Barclay as "his 
trusty and well-beloved fellow-proprietor." He was ap- 
pointed for a term not exceeding seven years, with power 
in case of urgent necessity to appoint a deputy under 
himself. 

22. Governor Lawrie arrived in the Province in 1684, and 
took the oath of office on the 28th of February of that year. 
He carried with him a new code of laws, called the "Fun- 
damental Concessions." These declared that Barclay had 
been appointed governor for all the days of his life, but 
provided that after his death the proprietors should choose 
a successor, who should be required to reside in the Prov- 
ince, and who should continue in office not longer than three 
years ; and that a proposition for his reappointment or the 

21. What change was made in the administration ? 

22. When did Laurie arrive in the Province? What alterations 
were made in the fundamental law '! 



DIVISION OF THE PROVINCE. 29 

appointment of his son " should be esteemed as a betrayal 
of the public liberty of the Province." 

23. The legislative authority was placed in the "Great 
Council," to consist of the twenty -four jDroprietors or their 
proxies, and one hundred and forty-four persons to be chosen 
by the freemen of the Province. At first, and until after 
the Province should be fully divided, only seventy-two repre- 
sentatives were to be chosen. One-half of the proprietors or 
their proxies, and one-half of the representatives should form 
a quorum, and the consent of twelve of the former and of 
two-thirds of the members present was required to pass 
an act. 

24. All laws Avere to be published, and no law should re- 
main in force more than fifty years after it was enacted, 
unless confirmed, excepting only the fundamental articles, 
which were not to be repealed, but to remain for ever in 
force. The executive authority was placed in the governor 
and " Common Council," the latter to consist of the twenty- 
four proprietors or their proxies and twelve persons chosen 
by ballot out of the "Great Council." This executive body 
appointed the public ofiicers for the Province, such as secre- 
tary, register, treasurer and surveyor-general, and all the 
sheriffs, judges and justices of the peace for their several 
counties. It was provided that no person in the Province 
should be arrested, imprisoned or injured in his person or 
estate excej^t by the lawful judgment of his peers. All trials 
should be by twelve men, the iDeers and equals of the accused. 
Persons of every religious pei'suasion were allowed to appear 
in any court in their own manner and plead their own cause, 
and no persons were allowed to take money for jjleading or 
advice in such cases. 

23. What is said of the legislative department? 

24. What is said of laws? Of the executive authority ? How were 
public officers appointed ? How were court trials conducted ? 

3 « 



30 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

25. No per.son who .should " confess and acknowledge the 
One, Almighty and Eternal God, and hold himself obliged 
in conscience to live peaceably and quietly in civil society, 
should be molested or prejudged for his religious persuasion 
and exercise in the matter of fjiith or worship, or be com- 
pelled to frequent or attend any religious place or ministry. 
But no man should be admitted a member of the Great or 
Common Council, or to a position of public trust, who should 
not profess faith in Jesus Christ, and solemnly declare that 
he doth not feel himself bound in conscience to do anything 
to subvert the government of the Province, or injure any 
person because they may differ from him in opinion, or be- 
cause in his opinion they are heretics." 

26. The provisions for the defence of the Province were 
such as to harmonize with the views of all religious sects. 
No one having conscientious scruples against bearing arms 
could be forced into the military service. 

27. In February, 1685, Charles II. died, and James, Duke 
of York, became king of England. In this elevated position 
he had little regard for the grants and the engagements he 
had made in a lower situation. Though he had at three dif- 
ferent times conveyed all the rights of ownership and govern- 
ment in New Jersey to the proprietors of that Province, he 
now deliberately attempted to annul these contracts and to 
resume possession of the territory he had previously sold. In 
Ajiril, 1686, he caused a suit to be brought against the \)yo- 
prietors for the purpose of having the proprietary titles re- 
vested in the crown. During the pendency of these pro- 
ceedings the General Assembly was convened for the first 
time under Governor Lawrie. It met at Perth Amboy 

25. What is said of religious toleration ? 

26. What is said of military service? 

27. AVhen did the Duke of York become king? How did the new 
king treat the proprietors of New Jersey? 



DIVISION OF THE PROVINCE. 31 

on the 6th of Aj:)!-!!, 1686. At this session the place of 
hohling the courts of common rights was changed, in accord- 
ance with the orders of the proprietors, from Elizabeth to 
Perth Aniboy. A law was passed prohibiting the wearing 
of arras or the sending a challenge to any pei'son to fight 
a duel. 

28. The proprietors and the people soon became dissatisfied 
with the administration of Laurie, and on the 4th of June, 

1686, he was superseded by the apjiointment of Lord Neill 
Campbell, a brother of the Duke of Argyle. The removal 
of a Quaker and the appointment of a Scotch Presbyterian 
gave great satisfaction to the inhabitants of East Jersey. 
The Quakers were not numerous in the Province, and a 
majority of the people, both of the old and of the new set- 
tlers, were of other persuasions. Many had come from New 
England, and brought with them their stern Puritan faith. 
Many immigrants had also come from Scotland, who ad- 
hered strongly to the Presbyterian Church. 

29. Tlie new deputy-governor had purchased an interest in 
the proprietary right of East Jersey, and had sent over a 
large number of settlers. Camj^bell remained in the Prov- 
ince but a short time. He returned to England on the 10th 
of December, leaving the government in charge of Andrew 
Hamilton, a Scotchman, who had lately arrived in the coun- 
try. Hamilton was commissioned deputy-governor in March, 

1687, and at once entered upon the duties of his office. At 
a session of General Assembly, held on the 14th of May, 

1688, the county of Middlesex was divided into Middlesex 
and Somerset counties. 



28. What is said of Laurie's administration ? Who was appointed 
governor? What was the effect of this cliange? 

29. What is said of Campbell's administration ? Who succeeded 
him? What new county was erected ? 



32 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

30. The proprietaries of both East and West New Jersey 
had never received any profits from their possessions in 
America. They had been continually annoyed by the agents 
of the duke at New York and at New Castle on the Dela- 
ware, and an extinction of their title was now threatened by 
the suit of the king. They therefore proposed a surrender 
of the government to the crown. Negotiations for that pur- 
pose were entered into, but they were not completed until 
after the accession of Queen Anne, in 1 702. The deed of 
transfer was entitled, "The surrender from the proprietors 
of East and West New Jersey of their perpetual right of 
government to her majesty," and was dated the loth of 
April, 1702. 

31. This instrument Avas signed by twenty-two persons for 
the eastern Province and by twenty-two for the western. In 
two days after this, the government was formally accepted by 
the queen at the Court of St. James, in the presence of a 
number of persons of the court and some of the j)roprietors, 
and the deed of surrender was enrolled in her majesty's high 
court of chancery. 

30. What important change-was made in the government? When 
did the transfer take place ? 

31. How was the transfer effected ? 



CHAPTER III. 

The Province of Wed Jersey. 




GOING ASHORE ON THE ICE. 



1. In the second grant made by the Duke of York to the 
proprietors of New Jersey a division line lietween East and 
West Jersey was indicated. The boundaries, however, were 
not surveyed. After West Jersey had been transferred to 
William Penn and his associates, an agreement was entered 
into between the proprietors of the two Provinces, which es- 
tablished the division line, beginning at Little Egg Harbor 
and extending north-westward to a point on the Delaware 
river in 41 degrees of north latitude. This article of agree- 
ment was called "An indenture quinti parti," because it was 
made between five persons. It was dated July 1, 1676. 

2. All that portion of New Jersey lying east of this line 

Chapter III. — 1. How was New Jersey divided? 
2. What were the divisions called? How was Fenwicke's interest 
disposed of? 

C 33 



34 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

was called East New Jersey, and all that lying west of it 
was called West New Jersey ; and each was recognized as an 
independent Province. After this line had been established, 
John Fenwick's interest in West Jersey was conveyed to 
John Eldridge and Edmund Warner in fee, and they were 
admitted into the number of proprietors. 

3. In order to establish a government for the Province of 
West Jersey, provisional autho'rity was given to Richard 
Hartshore and Richard Guy, residents of East Jersey, and 
to James Wasse, who was sent especially from England to 
act on behalf of the proprietors. These pei-sons were com- 
missioned on the 18th of August, 1676, by Byllinge and his 
trustees, in conjunction with Eldridge and Warner, and full 
power was given them to conduct the affairs of the govern- 
ment in accordance with instructions from the proprietors. 

4. Fenwick, who had founded a settlement at Salem, re- 
fused to recognize the transfer of his portion of the Province 
to Eldridge and Warner, and declared himself to be inde- 
pendent of this new government. It therefore became the 
first duty of the commissioners to settle this difficulty. All 
efforts, however, for that purpose failed. 

5. The original plan of the government was devised by 
William Penn and his immediate associates. It was after- 
ward approved by all the proprietors interested in the Prov- 
ince, and was first published on the 3d of March, 1676, as 
" The Concessions and Agreements of the proprietors, free- 
holders and inhabitants of the Province of West Jersey in 
America." 

6. This constitution declared that no man or number of 
men on earth had power or authority to rule over men's con- 

3. How was the government of West Jersey established? 

4. How did Fenwicke regard the new government? 

5. Who devised the plan of government? Wlien was it published? 

6. What did the constitution provide? 



THE PROVINCE OF WEST JERSEY. 35 

sciences in religious matters ; and that no person or persons 
within the Province should be in any wise called in question 
or punished, in person, estate or privilege, on account of 
opinion, judgment, faith or worship toward God in mattei-s 
of religion. That no proprietor or inhabitant of the Province 
should be deprived or condemned of life, limb, liberty or 
estate, Avithout due trial and judgment passed by twelve 
good and lawful men of his neighborhood. That no person 
should be arrested or imjirisoned, except in criminal and 
treasonable cases, until jjersonal summons, setting forth the 
cause, should have been given, and sufficient time allowed to 
make answer; and that no man should be imprisoned for 
debt if he had neither goods nor property wherewith to pay. 
That all the inhabitants of the Province should have the 
right to attend court and be present at all proceedings, "to 
the end that justice may not be done in a corner, nor in any 
covert manner, it being intended and resolved, by the help 
of the Lord and by these concessions and fundamentals, 
that all and every person and persons inhabiting this Prov- 
ince shall, as far as in us lies, be free from oppression and 
slavery." 

7. It was declared that the rights and privileges granted 
in this instrument were to continue as the foundation of the 
government, and that they were fixed and unalterable, not 
to be revoked or changed at any time by the legislative 
authority. They were to be read at the beginning and dis- 
solving of each General Assembly, and Avere also to be read 
" in a solemn manner" four times in a year in every hall of 
justice in the Province. 

8. The executive authority of the government was lodged 
in the hands of commissioners, to be appointed at first by 

7. How long were tliese laws to remain in force ? When were they 
to be read ? 

8. How was the executive anthoritv exercised? 



36 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the })r()i)rietors or a majority of them ; but after the further 
settlement of the Province they were to be chosen by the 
resident proprietors and inhabitants, on the 25th of March 
of each year. The first election for commissioners occurred 
in 1680. 

9. The commissioners were empowered to govern the affairs 
of the Province in accordance with the provisions of the con- 
stitution ; to superintend the execution of the laws ; to see 
that the officers of the courts established by law fully per- 
formed their duties ; to punish any delinquency or abuse of 
power; to suspend the execution of the sentences of the 
courts until the meeting of Assembly ; to see that lands were 
surveyed and that titles were properly made ; and generally 
to provide for the safety and peace of the Province. 

10. The legislative authority was lodged in a General As- 
sembly, to consist of one representative from each of the one 
hundred proprietary divisions in the Province, to be elected by 
the inhabitants therein on the first day of October of each year. 
These were to meet annually in one chamber, and had author- 
ity to fix their own time of meeting and adjournment. The 
votes of two-thirds of the members present were required to 
pass any act that was submitted to them. The Assembly 
had i>ower to pass laws necessary for the government of the 
Province, and to provide that the administrations of justice 
and the characters of the laws should be agreeable to the 
laws and customs of England. Chief justices, ambassadors 
and commissioners of the public seal and treasury, were 
chosen by the Assembly. Justices of the peace and consta- 
bles were elected by the people. Each member received one 
shilling a day "as the servant of the people." 



9. What was the power of tlie commissioners? 

10. How was the General Assembly constituted? What were the 
l)owers of the Assembly? 



THE PROVINCE OF WEST JERSEY. 87 

11. The constitution provided that before any lands could 
be taken up by settlers, they must be purchased from the 
Indians by the commissioners, and that when any difficulty 
arose between the natives and the settlers the commissioners 
had full authority to adjust the matter. They were charged 
to take good care in every case that full justice should be 
done to the Indians ; and in all cases of trials between 
natives and the inhabitants, the trials should be by six of 
the inhabitants and the same number of Indians. The pur- 
chasers of land were to pay one penny and a half per acre to 
the proprietors for all lands that should be laid out in towns, 
and one penny per acre for all other lands. One hundred 
and fifty-six names were subscribed to this constitution. 

12. This was the first effort of the Quakers at legislation. 
Many of the principles that were then adopted have run 
through all the constitutional law of the American States, 
substituting mercy and love for severe justice and revenge. 

13. One of the most remarkable features in this instrument 
is the fact that no authority is retained by the proprietary 
body. " We put the power in the people," was the language 
of the fundamental law ; and it fully provided that no 
authority was to exist in the Province except such as was 
established by popular action. No further restraints were 
imposed or allowed than Vt^ere necessary for the maintenance 
of order. The constitution gave the fullest security to lib- 
erty, and was in that respect in advance of all governments 
then existing. It gave free scope for individual effort and 
action, and completely enfranchised the minds of the in- 
habitants. The person of every citizen was safe ; and his 



11. How were public lands to be disposed of? What is said of tiie 
treatment of Indians? 

12. Wliat is said of this legislation ? 

13. What was the ciiaracter of the government? 
4 



38 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

property was placed wholly beyond the reach of arbitrary 
exactions. 

14. The proprietors appointed nine executive commission- 
ers under this constitution.* They arrived in the Province 
in August, 1677, accompanied by a large number of settlers, 
most of whom were members of the Society of Friends. The 
company landed at the mouth of Raccoon creek on the Dela- 
ware, where a few Swedes from the west bank of the river 
had settled. This was the second body of emigrants from 
England to West Jersey. The commissioners purchased 
from the natives three tracts of land on the Delaware, the 
whole reaching from Assunpink on the north to Old Man's 
creek on the south. The southern boundary was the line of 
the territory owned by Fenwick. 

15. At about this time two land companies were organ- 
ized in England to settle lands in West Jersey, one called 
the Yorkshire company and the other the London company. 
The Yorkshire company selected a tract extending from 
Rancocas creek to the Falls of the Delaware, which was sur- 
veyed and assigned to the agents of the company as the " First 
tenth." The agents of the London company took up a tract 
on the Delaware in the vicinity of Arwamas and Timber creeks. 
Afterward, however, an agreement was made between these 
two companies for the purpose of settling a town jointly. 
They selected a site on the Delaware and laid out a town, to 
which they gave the name of Beverly. This name was after- 
ward changed to Bridlington, and finally to Burlington, 

* TJie first commissioners appointed were : Thomas Olive, Kobert 
Stacy, Benjamin Scott, Daniel Wills, John Ivinsey, .John Renl'ord, 
Richard Guy, .Joseph Helmsley and Thomas Foiilke. 

14. When did the executive commissioners arrive in the Province? 
Where did they land ? 

15. What cotnpanies were organized ? Where did these companies 
settle ? 



, THE PROVINCE OF WEST JERSEY. 39 

which last name it still bears. The lands transferred to the 
London company were called the " Second tenth." 

16. The proi:)rietors made wide publication of the princi- 
ples of the government and the character of the country in 
West Jersey, and William Penu and his colleagues addressed 
a circular letter to the Friends, setting forth the advantages 
of the independent settlement, governed by Quaker princi- 
ples, in a new country. Large numbers of the Quakers, 
who had long suftered severe persecutions in Europe, availed 
themselves of the opportunities thus opened to escape from 
the hands of their oppressors. In the course of the year 1677 
upward of four hundred persons of this faith immigrated to 
West New Jersey. The population was thus rapidly in- 
creased by the arrival of families distinguished for Christian 
virtues, intelligence, energy and skill. 

17. Following the ship which brought the commissioners 
came the "Willing Mind," bringing about seventy passengers. 
It arrived at Elsinburg, on the Delaware, in November. 
Next came the "Martha," from Yorkshire, with one hun- 
dred and fourteen passengers, and in December, 1678, the 
"Shield" arrived from Hull. As the " Shield" was passing 
Coaquanock, the site of what afterward became the city of 
Philadelphia, her spar struck the trees, and some one on 
board remarked, "How fine a spot this is for a town!" 
The ship sailed up the river to Burlington, where the pas- 
sengers next morning went ashore on the ice. 

18. Though many settlers arrived in the Province, some 
of them coming in the middle of winter, the hardships en- 
dured were comparatively few. Perseverance, industry, tem- 
perance and self-reliance, the strong characteristics of this 

16. How was the population increased ? 

17. Wliat ships arrived? 

18. How did the settlers escape hardships? 



40 HISTORY OF i^EW JERSEY. 

people, surmounted every difficulty and placed the strangers 
in the new world in comfortable dwellings. 

19. Although the population in West Jersey increased 
rapidly, and the people were industrious and prosperous, the 
government was not established without difficulty. The 
Duke of York and his agents attempted the same interfer- 
ence with the proprietary rights that had so greatly embar- 
rassed Sir George Carteret and his associates in East Jersey. 
Against this interference an earnest protest was made ; and 
an argument in behalf of the colonists drawn up by Wil- 
liam Penn, George Hutchinson and others, chiefly Quakers, 
evinced a spirit of liberty worthy the founders of an early 
commonwealth in North America, and contained the germs 
of those principles which were subsequently incor^iorated in 
the Declaration of Independence, and which finally led to 
the emancipation of the colonies and the establishment of an 
independent nation. 

20. The proprietaries declared that they had bought the 
territory and the government, which had been conveyed by 
the crown to the duke, and by the duke to Lord Berkeley, 
and by Lord Berkeley to his successors ; that they had paid 
a valuable consideration ; and that in the conveyance the 
powers of government were expressly granted; and that with- 
out these they could not have been induced to purchase the 
territory, for the plain reason that to all prudent men a gov- 
ernment of the people is more inviting than the soil. They 
very pertinently asked, " What is good land without good 
laws ? And if we could not assure the people of an easy and 
free and safe government, both with respect to their spiritual 
and worldly property, a mere wilderness would be no en- 

19. How was the govei-nment embarrassed? What was the charac- 
ter of the protest of the proprietors ? 

20. What did the proprietors declare ? Wliat pertinent questions 
did they ask ? 



THE PROVINCE OF WEST JERSEY. 41 

courageinent ; for it were madness to leave a free, good 
and improved country to plant in the wilderness and 
there adventure money — thousands of pounds — to give 
an absolute title to another person to tax us at will and 
pleasure." 

21. They protested against the attempt of the Duke of 
York to collect taxes, not because it laid upon them a bur- 
den or because of any hardship it enforced, but because they 
believed it to be wrong. " To give up the power of making 
laws is to change the government, to sell, or rather to resign 
ourselves to the will of another, and that for nothing. For 
under favor we buy nothing from the duke, if not the right 
of an undisturbed colonizing, and that as Englishmen, with 
no diminution, but expectation of some increase of these free- 
doms and privileges enjoyed in our own country. The soil 
is not his ; it is the natives', by the laws of nations. To con- 
clude this point, we humbly say that we have not lost any 
part of our liberty by leaving our country ; for we leave not 
our king or our government by quitting our soil, but were 
transmitted to a place given by the same king, with express 
limitation to erect no polity contrary to the established gov- 
ernment." 

22. Unpalatable as this argument must have been to the 
British court it was triumphant, and the duke was com- 
pelled to abandon all claims to West Jersey, and to confirm 
the title to the soil of the Province in the fullest terms to 
William Penn and his associates. In this conveyance the 
right of government was expressly lodged in Edward Byl- 
linge, his heirs and assigns. A few years later, acting under 
this conveyance, Byllinge attempted to assume the sole con- 
trol of the government. The battle of rights was there- 

21. What did they protest against ? 

22. What was the effect of this protest? 



42 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

fore to be fought over again. The second victory, like the 
first, was gained by the people. 

23. Though the proprietors were not satisfied with the 
action of the duke in lodging the sole right of government in 
Byllingc, they nevertheless elected him governor and gave 
him authority to appoint a deputy. Under this authority 
he appointed Samuel Jennings deputy-governor, in 1679, 
but when a few years later he attempted to remove his 
deputy, the General Assembly disputed his right to do so, 
and elected Jennings governor of the Province, and success- 
fully resisted the pretensions of Byllinge. In 1684 the As- 
sembly sent Governor Jennings a commissioner to England to 
negotiate with Byllinge for the recognition of the principles 
of the "Concessions," which provided that purchasers of ter- 
ritory should become participants in the government. Upon 
the departure of Jennings, Thomas Olive Avas elected gov- 
ernor. The mission was successful, and the government was 
restored to its original basis as set forth in the " Conces- 
sions." John Skeine was then received as the deputy-gov- 
ernor of Byllinge. 

24. Byllinge died in 1687, and Dr. Daniel Coxe, of Lon- 
don, already a large proprietor, purchased the interest of 
Byllinge's heirs in the soil and government. Coxe was 
elected governor of the Province, and continued in that office 
until the year 1690. In 1691 he conveyed the government 
to a company of proprietors called the " West Jersey So- 
ciety," Avho, in 1692, appointed Andrew Hamilton gov- 
ernor. Thus the question of the right to govern was finally 
settled. 

25. Under the administration of Governor Jennings the 
first Assembly convened on the 25th of November, 1681. 

23. Wlio was elected governor? Who appointed deputy-governor? 

24. Wliat cliange occurred in the proprietorship? 

25. AViiat laws were passed In' the first Assembly? 



THE PROVINCE OF WEST JERSEY. 43 

This body enacted several important laws. It provided for 
the annual election and meeting of the Legislature; for the 
appointment and removal of officers ; declared that no taxes 
or customs should continue longer than one year ; that no 
one should be incapable of holding office by reason of his 
religious belief. It restricted the power and the authority 
of the deputy-governor. A notable act passed by this As- 
sembly was one providing for the building of a highway 
from Burlington to Salem, and another imposing a heavy 
penalty for the selling of intoxicating liquors to the Indians. 

26. The second Assembly met in May, 1682. It provided 
for the issuing of the coin called " Patrick's half-pence," with 
a condition that no one should be compelled to receive more 
than five shillings of it in one payment. It established 
Burlington and Salem as ports of entry, and empowered 
justices to solemnize marriages on fourteen days' notice and 
consent of the parents. It directed that ten bushels of corn, 
necessary apparel, two horses and one axe should be given 
as freedom dues to servants. It prohibited the imprison- 
ment of debtors who surrendered their estates, and de- 
clared the town of Burlington to be the chief city of the 
Province. 

27. At the third session, which convened in May, 1683, 
the governor. Council and Assembly met together and con- 
stituted the General Assembly of the Province. An act was 
passed at this session for the encouragement of learning and 
the better education of youth. It set aside the island of 
Matenicuuk for school purposes " to the town of Burlington 
and to others concerned therein in the First and Second 
tenths," and declared that all the rents and profits therein 
should be for ever employed for maintaining schools. 

26. What by the second Asfsembly ? 

27. Wliat important act was passed by the third Assembly? 



44 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

28. During the period of ten years the farmers of West 
Jersey were undisturbed, and the Province increased in pop- 
ulation and prosperity. The huvs were mild, contained no 
enactments against arson, no prescribed punishment for 
murder or treason, and yet during twenty-four years under 
their administration these crimes were unknown within the 
Province. In every case the legislation of West Jersey 
sought reparation and reclamation of the offender rather 
than punishment. Whoever destroyed the property of his 
neighbor was condemned to make a fourfold return and to 
suffer imprisonment at labor ; and personal injuries might be 
pardoned by the sufferer. Thus in all cases mercy presided 
over the justice-seat. 

29. One of the early deputies said of the inhabitants: 
" They are generally a sober, professing people, Avise in their 
generation, courteous in their behavior and respectful to 
those in office. There is not in all the Province a poor 
body that wants. The servants work not so much by a third 
as they do in England, and are fed much better. They 
have beef, pork, bacon, pudding, milk, butter, and good 
beer or cider to drink. When they are out of their time 
they have land for themselves, and generally turn farmers. 
Servants' wages are not under two shillings a day, beside 
victuals." 

30. In this season of prosperity a third tract of land was 
sold to emigrants from Ireland. This was called the "Irish 
tenth." It extended from Pensaukin to Timber creek. The 
" Fourth tenth" extended from Timber creek to Old Man's 
creek. The settlers in the "Third and Fourth tenths" found 
it inconvenient to transact their public business in Burling- 
ton and Salem, and therefore resolved to establish a central 

28. What is said of the spirit of the laws? 

29. What is said of the character of the people ? 

30. What new settlement was made? What new county ? 



THE PROVINCE OF WEST JERSEY. 45 

jurisdiction, and for this purpose a convention was helc^ in 
Gloucester in May, 1686. This convention adopted an agree- 
ment which determined the limits and the jurisdiction of the 
territory and divided it into townships, and provided for 
the establishment of courts, with the times and places of 
their sittings. This new division was called the county of 
Gloucester. 

31, Under the administration of Governor Hamilton the 
Assembly convened on the 3d of November, 1692. At this 
session the boundaries between counties were confirmed. 
The division between Burlington and Gloucester was de- 
fined, and a new county called Cape May was established. 
It provided that courts for the trial of small cases might be 
held in the several divisions of the Province, but higher cases 
were to be tried in the sessions at Salem.' 

32. In 1694 the manner of electing representatives to the 
General Assembly was changed. Before that time they had been 
elected from the several tenths, but it was then provided that 
they should be chosen from counties. In the apportionment, 
Burlington was given 20 representatives, Gloucester 20, Salem 
10, and Cape May 5. The appointment of Governor Hamil- 
ton had been hailed with delight by the people, and his ad- 
ministration resulted in great good to the Province. 

. 33. The first "Friends' Yeai'ly Meeting" was held at 
Governor Jennings' house, near Burlington, on the 28tli of 
June, 1681. The old house is still standing, and is on the 
farm owned by Joseph Parrish. 

31. Wlien was Cape May county formed ? 

32. How was representation apportioned ? 

33. Where and when was the first yearly meeting field? 



CHAPTER IV. 

The Royal Government Established — Cornbury's 
Adminidratioii. 



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GOVERNOR JENNINGS HOUSE. 



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1. The articles of surrender, accepted by Queen Anne, 
April 17th, 1702, transferred the government of the Jerseys 
to the crown, l)ut left the ownership of the soil with the old 
proprietors. There Avere thus two authorities set up Avithin 
the Province — one of government and the other of proj^erty. 
The Province of New Jersey, now comprising the whole of 
East and West Jersey, contained at the time of the surrender 
about 20,000 inhabitants, of which number about 12,000 were 
in East and 8000 in West Jersey. Most of the inhabitants 
were Quakers, Presbyterians and Anabaptists. There were 



Chapter IV. — 1. What was the effect of the transfer of tlie gov- 
ernment to the crown? What was the number and character of in- 
habitants in East and West Jersey at the time of their transfer? 
46 



THE ROYAL GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED. 47 

two Episcopal ministers in the Province, but the members 
of that denomination were not sufficiently numerous and 
wealthy to provide churches for their i-ectors. The militia 
force numbered 1400 men. Immigrants had come from all parts 
of Eurojje ; the people therefore differed widely in character, 
language and habits. All, however, had come to the Westers 
world for one purpose — fleeing oppression in Europe, seeking 
liberty of conscience and perfect freedom in America. By 
the common bond of human rights they were closely joined 
in orderly communities. The habits of industry and econ- 
omy, so common among the Scotch and Quakers, the Puri- 
tans and the Dutch, soon gained for New Jersey a prosperity 
that invited a large immigration. 

2. Slavery was introduced into these settlements at a very 
early period, planted and protected by royal patronage. The 
efforts of the German settlers in Pennsylvania to restrict the 
trade in slaves were heartily seconded by the inhabitants of 
New Jersey. In the year 1696 the Quakers united with 
their brethren in Pennsylvania in recommending their own 
sect to refrain from the importation of slaves and from the 
employment of them. 

3. The commerce of the Province had already become 
considerable. The exports consisted of agricultural pro- 
duce, furs, skins and fish oil. At this time Burlington was 
the principal poi't, and it was commended by early writers 
for the comfort and neatness of its buildings. At the l)egin- 
ning of the seventeenth century it contained a thriving manu- 
factory of linen and woolen cloth. These, however, were 
soon smothered by the selfish policy of the mother-country. 

4. The new constitution under the queen's government 
was published on the 16th of November, 1702. Lord Corn- 

2. What is said of slavery in the Province ? 

3. WJiat is sakl of commerce? Of Burlington? 

4. When was the constitution under tlie queen's government pub- 



48 HISTORY OF Ni:W JERSEY. 

bury was appointed governor both of New York and of New 
Jersey. Under this constitution the government of New 
Jersey was vested in a governor, Council and General As- 
sembly. The governor and members of the Council were 
appointed by the crown. The General Assembly consisted 
of 24 representatives, chosen by the inhabitants. The first 
apportionment was 2 representatives from Perth Amboy, 
2 from Burlington, 2 from Salem and 2 from each of the nine 
counties of the Province.* The constitution provided that a 
representative must be the owner of at least 1000 acres of 
land in the division from which he was chosen, or must 
own personal estate to the value of £500. No person could 
vote who did not own at least 100 acres of land, or personal 
estate to the value of £50. 

5. The Assembly Avas to meet alternately at Perth Amboy 
and at Burlington, and might be convened and adjourned or 
dissolved by order of the governor. Full power was given 
to enact all laws necessary for the peace and good govern- 
ment of the Province, provided no laws should be passed in 
conflict with the laws and constitution of the English govern- 
ment. The constitution provided that the proprietary rights, 
the rights of the inhabitants and the Indian policy estab- 
tablished by the former government should be maintained. 
The constitution also provided that all laws should within 
three months after the passage thereof be sent to England for 
approbation, and that all such as were not approved under 
the royal authority should become utterly void. 

* The names of the counties were : Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, Mon- 
mouth, Somerset, Burlington, Gloucester, Salem and Cape May. 

lished? Who was appointed governor? How were the officers of the 
government appointed ? How was the General Assembly constituted ? 
What was the qualification of members? 

5. What wore the powers of the Assembly? How were laws 
enacted ? 



THE ROYAL GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED. 49 

6. The governor had power to veto auy act of the Assem- 
bly ; also, with the advice and consent of the Council, to 
establish as many courts as might be necessary, and to de- 
termine the authorities, privileges and fees of all the officers 
belonging to them. He appointed judges, justices of the 
peace and other officers for the administration of justice. He 
might pardon all offences, except in cases of treason or wil- 
ful murder, when he could only reprieve. He had power 
to provide for the defence of the Province and to execute 
martial law in case of invasion or insurrection. In case of 
the death or absence of the governor these duties were to be 
performed by a lieutenant-governor commissioned by the 
crown, or by the oldest member of Council whose name was 
first placed upon the governor's instructions. 

7. The constitution provided further that no man's life, 
member, estate or goods should be taken away other than by 
established laws; that liberty of conscience was to be allowed 
to all persons, except Papists, who conducted themselves in a 
peaceable, quiet manner. Persons who made a religious 
scruple of swearing were allowed to take a solemn affirmation 
instead of an oath. Encouragement was given to commerce 
and trade. The "Royal African Company," of England, 
was especially recommended to the end that the Province 
should be constantly supplied with "merchantable negroes" 
at moderate rates. The governor was enjoined to take care 
that God Almighty should be devoutly served throughout 
the Province, and an especial form of service with the doc- 
trine and discipline of the Church of England was to be en- 
couraged and maintained. 

8. The new government was less favorable to popular in- 

6. What were the powers of the governor? 

7. What did the constitution provide ? 

8. How did the new government compare with the old? How were 
(iie liberties of the people affected by the new constitution? 

5 D 



50 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

terests and the rights of the people than the old had been. 
The powers of the representative branch were greatly re- 
stricted, and the General Assembly was wholly dependent 
upon the will of the governor. The establishment of courts 
and the fixing of the salaries of the officers were taken from 
the people and lodged in the executive. Public revenues 
and the expenditure of moneys were laid under the strict 
sui)ervision of the governor. The complete religious freedom 
formerly enjoyed was reduced to an imperfect toleration. 
Papists w'ere excepted from the grant of liberty of con- 
science, and the patronage of the government was given in 
favor of a particular Church. The institution of slavery, 
which had formerly been endured under j^rotest, was now 
urged upon the Province by royal recommendation. Worse 
than all, instructions were given that, " inasmuch as great in- 
convenience may arise by the liberty of printing in our said 
Province, you are to provide by all necessary orders that no 
person keep any press for printing, nor that any book, pam- 
phlet or other matters whatsoever be printed' without your 
special leave and license first obtained." 

9. Lord Cornbury arrived in New Jersey in August, 1703. 
His Council had previously been appointed by the queen.* 

10. The governor summoned his Council to meet him, and 
issued orders for the election of representatives. The Gen- 
eral Assembly convened at Perth Amboy on the 10th of 
November of that year. Twenty-three members were pres- 
ent, representing nearly all the divisions in the Province. 

* The members of the first Council were : Edward Ilnnloke, Lewis 
Morriis, Andre\t Eowne, Samuel Jennings, Tlionias Eevel, Francis 
Davenport, William Pinhorne, Samuel Leonard, George Deacon, 
Samuel Walker. Daniel Leeds, Samuel Sandford and Robert Quarry. 

9. When did Cornbury arrive in the Province? 

10. Wiiat were the first acts of the governor? AViien did the first 
General Assembly meet, and how was it organized ? 



THE ROYAL GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED. 51 

Thomas Gardiner, of Burlington, was chosen speaker. The 
governor explained the constitution and his purposes to the 
Council and Assembly. He assured them that they and the 
people they represented might enjoy all the liberty, happi- 
ness and satisfaction that good subjects might wish for, 
and said that they were now met for the purpose of passing 
such laws as might conduce to the quiet and welfare of the 
Province — that he was commanded to recommend them to 
raise a revenue for the sup2:)ort of the government, and to 
determine the rights and privileges of the proj^rietors to the 
soil. 

11. The representatives returned thanks for his excel- 
lency's kind expressions, and said that they were assured 
that the proprietors, by their surrender of the government 
had put the people and the Province in much better circum- 
stances than they were under former rulers, who had not 
been able to give protection "from the villainies of wicked 
men." They said, that "relying upon her majesty's protec- 
tion, they would endeavor to do those things that would give 
her content and be to her honor." 

12. The governor and the Assembly, however, soon fell 
into a violent quarrel on the question of revenue, and on the 
13th of December the house was prorogued, the governor de- 
claring that the representatives, either through want of dis- 
position or ability, were unwilling to legislate for the good 
of the Province. 

13. The next session of the Assembly was held at Burling- 
ton, beginning on the 7th of September, 1704. The governor 
again urged the necessity for determining the rights of the 
proprietors, and for raising a fund for the support of the 
government, and also to j)rovide for the defence of the Prov- 

11. How did the Assembly reply to the governor's address? 

12. On what grounds did the governor and Assembly quarrel? 

13. What occurred at the next meeting of the Assembly? 



52 HISTOliT OF NEW JER8ET. 

ince. The Assembly acted upon the business laid before it 
with great deliberatiou, and finally resolved to raise the sum 
of £1300 per annum for the supjjort of the government, to 
continue for the term of three years. This did not meet the 
expectations of the governor. He demanded £2000 per 
annum for the term of twenty years, and arbitrarily dis- 
solved the Assembly for refusing to grant it, and then issued 
a proclamation for the election of a new house, to meet on the 
13th of the following November. 

14. There was a majority against the government in the 
new Assembly, but in order to overcome this, he caused 
three members to be rejected, and thus secured a majority in 
his favor. The house thus organized by his interference, 
complimented his excellency for his mode of conducting the 
government, declaring that "it was carried on with great 
diligence and exquisite management, to the admiration of his 
friends and the envy of his enemies." The sum of £2000 
per annum for tAvo years was voted for the support of the 
government. An act establishing a militia force was agreed 
upon, and an act of amnesty for all past oflTences was passed. 
A law was enacted extending the right of suffrage to all free- 
holders, and declaring that the representatives met in Gen- 
eral Assembly were the judges of the qualifications of their 
own members. Finally, the Assembly investigated the cases 
of the rejected members, and finding that no sufficient 
grounds existed for their exclusion, admitted them to seats. 

15. Before the surrender of the government a council of 
proprietors had been organized in the western division of the 
Province, for the purpose of managing the sale and transfer 
of lauds. This council continued to hold meetings and to 
transact business after the establishment of the new govern- 

14. How did the governor secure a majority of the Assembly in his 
favor? What acts were passed ? 

15. Wliat is said of tiie proprietary riglits? 



THE ROYAL GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED. 53 

nient, until Governor Cornbury conceived it to be his duty 
to iuterfei-e with its authority. In 1706 he summoned the 
members of this council to meet him, and demanded an ex- 
planation of their powers and objects. They replied that 
they Avere entrusted with the management of all affairs re- 
lating to the landed interests of the proprietors — that they 
purchased lands from the natives, ordered surveys, granted 
warrants and inspected the rights of claimants. The gov- 
ernor was not satisfied with this reply, and issued an order 
prohibiting the council from any further exercise of power 
in disposing of lands. 

16. In 1707, the time when the appropriation for the sup- 
port of the government was exhausted, the governor ordered 
a new election and called a meeting of the Assembly. By 
this time the people had become thoroughly acquainted with 
the powers of the new government and the character of the 
governor. It was discovered that the protection which was 
promised came rather in the form of oppression, and that the 
liberty which had been formerly enjoyed by the people w'as 
now greatly restricted. The colonists were not disposed 
to submit quietly to this abridgment of their rights and 
privileges. 

17. The new Assembly met on the 7th of April of this 
year, and among the representatives were men strong both in 
ability and resolution to maintain the rights of the people. 
The house received the governor's address, and then resolved 
itself into a general committee for the consideration of public 
grievances. It prepared and sent a petition to the queen 
and a remonstrance to Governor Cornbury, in which the 
governor was charged with interference with the rights of the 
proprietors ; with trespassing upon the .privileges of the As- 

16. How was the new government now regarded? 

17. What was the character of the new Assembly ? What action 
did it take? What cliarges did it bring against the governor? 

5 «- 



54 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

sembly by excluding legally-elected representatives from that 
body ; Avith an undue exercise of the pardoning power, and 
refusing to sign l)ills necessary for the well-government of the 
Province. The members charged the governor with bribery, 
and said, " liberty is too valuable a thing to be easily parted 
with ; and when such mean inducements procure such en- 
deavors to tear it from us, we must say that they have 
neither heads, hearts nor souls that are not moved by the 
miseries of their country, and are not forward with their 
utmost powers lawfully to redress them." They reminded 
the governor, in conclusion, that no artifice was necessary 
to secure the affections of the people, who required only 
to be left in the unmolested enjoyment of what belongs to 
them. 

18. This remonstrance was read to the governor and his 
Council by Samuel Jennings, speaker of the Assembly. The 
governor was much irritated, and frequently interrupted the 
reader ; but Jennings calmly repeated, with strong emphasis, 
the passages at which he was interrupted, and read the docu- 
ment through. The governor requested the representatives 
to meet him at some future day to receive his reply. His 
answer was weak, undignified and abusive. It was especially 
severe on the Quakers, who, as a people, had given him no 
cause for this abuse ; but the answer gave no promise of 
reform. 

19. Soon after this the governor adjourned the Assembly, 
which met again in October of the same year. The first act 
at this session was a resolution that no money should be 
granted for the support of the government until redress was 
obtained for the grievances which had been complained of. 
The representatives then drew up an answer to the gov- 

18. How did the governor receive the remonstrance? What was 
his answer thereto? 

19. Wliat occurred at tlie next meeting of the Assembly? 



i 



THE ROYAL GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED. 55 

ernor's I'cply. They again set forth the complaints of the 
people in stronger language than before, and reminded his 
excellency that it was the General Assembly of the Province 
that complained, and not the Quakers, with Avhom they had 
nothing to do, but who would probably be able to vindicate 
themselves from the charges that were thrown upon them in 
the governor's answer. They declared that their expecta- 
tions of full protection to their liberties under the govern- 
ment had not been realized, and that the reasons given by 
the governor to justify his conduct were insufficient ; that the 
governor had no authority to pardon willful murderers ; that 
his course in reference to the council of proprietors was an 
abuse of power, and that his rejection of members of the 
Assembly was wholly inconsistent with the nature of free 
representative bodies. It would place the liberties, the lives 
and the properties of the people entirely at the governor's 
disposal, which was contrary to the design of her majesty's 
government. And finally, the charge of bribery against the 
governor was repeated, and particular circumstances were 
specified. The governor refused to receive this reply, where- 
upon it was entered upon the journal of the house, and two 
days afterward the Assembly was adjourned by order of the 
governor, and the quarrel between the departments of the 
government was referred to the queen. 

20. A new Assembly met on the 5th of May, 1708. The 
governor laid before this body a message, in which he re- 
quired that a bill should be passed raising a revenue of 
£1500 annually, to continue for the term of twenty-one 
years. He recommended that the militia bill should be 
amended, and that laws should be passed confirming the 
rights and property of the general proprietors and the titles 

20. What laws did the governor recommend to be passed ? What 
reply did the Assembly make to the recommendation? How did the 
governor receive the reply ? 



\ 



56 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

of estates. The Assembly replied that they had always been 
ready and desirous to siq^port the government, and that they 
re2:retted the misunderstandinfr that had occurred between 
the governor and themselves — that they had formerly men- 
tioned to his excellency a number of grievances under which 
the country labored, and which had not been removed. 
They stated as additional ground of complaint that a recent 
application for a writ for the election of new members had 
been refused. They clearly intimated that a redress of these 
grievances was the only way of securing a full co-operation 
between the different branches of the government. They 
were willing to comply with the commands with regard to 
the rights of property and the titles to estates, but they con- 
sidered the militia bill oppressive and obnoxious to the 
people, and they were unwilling to appropriate money for 
the support of a government that did not protect them in 
their rights. The governor Avas highly offended by this reply, 
and immediately adjourned the house until the following Sep- 
tember, and before that time arrived he issued an order dis- 
solving it. 

21. It now became evident that there would be no peace 
in the government of the Province under Cornbury's rule. 
He had been equally unsuccessful in his administration in 
New York. He was therefore removed in 1708, and Lord 
Lovelace was appointed his successor. 



21. How was this quarrel ended ? 



CHAPTER V. 

Early Legislation — Government Separated from New Yorh. 




WILLIAM PENN. 



1. Governor Lovelace made his first communication 
to the General Assembly on the 3d of March, 1709. He 
showed a proper regard for the feelings and a full apprecia- 
tion of the rights of the colonists. He assured them that he 
would give no just cause for uneasiness, and expressed the 
hope that by mutual forbearance perfect harmony might be 
restored and maintained, and that all animosities would be 
forgotten. Her majesty would not be burdensome to her 
people, but would only require that the funds necessary for 
the support of the government should be raised in a manner 
that would be most convenient to the inhabitants of the 

Chapter V. — 1. When did Governor Lovelace make his first com- 
munication to the Assembly? What was the character of this com- 
munication ? 

57 



58 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Province. He recommended that a militia law should be 
passed in such a form as would give no dissatisfaction to the 
people. 

2. The house replied to this communication in a spirit of 
moderation, and exhibited a willingness to concur in the 
views of his excellency and to adopt the measures set forth 
in his message. The members gave him a cordial Avelcome 
to the Province, and declared that they had acted from no 
animosities, but from a desire to maintain their rights ; and 
they had no doubt that a hearty agreement Avould be main- 
tained. They promised to give a faithful support to his 
government. 

3. The Assembly passed an act granting to the governor 
the sum of £1700 for one year, established a militia system, 
and adopted a bill declaratory of the rights and privileges of 
the members of the General Assembly. 

4. The hopes of the people for a season of quiet and pros- 
perity were suddenly terminated by the death of the gov- 
ernor. The disappointment occasioned by this event was 
increased by the fact that Lieutenant-Governor Ingoldsby 
had already made himself unpopular in the Province. 

5. The war declared by England against France in 1702 
had extended to the American Provinces, and in 1709 New 
Jersey was called on to furnish 200 men for the army to 
operate against the French settlements in Canada. Gov- 
ernor Lovelace died on the 5th of May, 1709. The Assem- 
bly convened soon after this event, and received a communi- 
cation from Lieutenant-Governor Ingoldsby, setting forth the 

2. What reply did the house make ? 

3. What acts did the Assembly pass ? 

4. How were the hopes of the people disappointed? 

5. What war was now waged in Europe? How did this afiect New 
.Jersey? Who succeeded Governor Lovelace? What important acts 
were passed by the Assembly ? 



EARLY LEGISLATION. 59 

requisitions of the English ministry, to which they gave im- 
mediate attention, and passed an act for the raising of £3000, 
to be used in her majesty's service. It was under the author- 
ity of this act that paper money Avas first issued in New 
Jersey. It was authorized upon the plea of urgent neces- 
sity, but afterward became a j^art of the settled policy of the 
go'';ernment. 

6. At the next meeting of the Assembly, which occurred 
in November of the same year, the attention of the house 
was given wholly to domestic affairs. It prescribed that 
each representative should be an actual resident within the 
Province, and of some city, town or county of that division 
from which he was chosen. An act was passed to ascertain 
and determine the boundaries of the several counties ; an- 
other declaring that the Assembly should thereafter meet at 
Burlington. 

7. Governor Ingoldsby was superseded by William Pin- 
horne, who held the office until June 14, 1710, when he 
was succeeded by Brigadier-General Huntei', who had been 
commissioned governor of New York and New Jersey. 
General Hunter had previously served as governor of Vir- 
ginia, and was held in high esteem in America. His ap- 
pointment, therefore, gave great satisfaction. He met the 
Assembly of New Jersey on the 7th of December, and his 
address to the house was characterized by a frankness unusual 
in such papers. He said that he was little accustomed to 
making speeches, and should not be tedious. " There has been 
much complaint of unchristian divisions, an evil of which all 
complain, but which few take the right method to remedy. 
Let every man begin at home. Leave disputes to the laws 
and injuries to the avenger of them, and as good subjects 

6. To what did the next Assembly give its attention ? 

7. When and by wboni was Governor Ingoldsby superseded? What 
is said i>f General Hunter? 

5 * 



60 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

and Christians act together for common good." He ex- 
pressed the hope that there Avould be no diflerences about the 
question of means to support the government, and promised 
that he should heartily concur in whatever was necessary for 
the peace and welfare of the Province. His address closed 
Avith this sentiment: "All power, except that of doing good, 
is but a burden." 

8. The house congratulated the governor, and expressed 
the hope that the time had arrived when the causes of "un- 
christian differences" would no longer exist. They said that 
an instance of her majesty's favor had been experienced in 
the appointment of the good Lord Lovelace as governor of 
the Province, by which an end was put to the worst admin- 
istration they had ever known ; and that they considered the 
appointment of his excellency, the present governor, as a 
new mark of royal favor. 

9. Among the instructions to the governor was one 
directing him to cause an act to be passed in the Gen- 
eral Assembly, in conformity with that which had been 
passed in New England during the reign of William III., 
allowing the solemn affirmation and declaration of Quakers 
to be accepted instead of an oath. A law embodying this 
provision was passed by the Assembly, but was rejected by 
the Council, which had set itself in opposition to both the 
governor and the representatives. The militia bill met the 
same fate. A remonstrance against the action of the Coun- 
cil was sent to Governor Hunter. He made a careful inves- 
tigation of the whole subject, and sent such representations 
to the queen as led to the speedy removal of several mem- 
bers of the Council, and thus harmony was fully restored in 
the government. 

8. How did the house receive Governor Hunter ? 

9. What important acts were passed during Hunter's administra- 
tion? 



EARLY LEGISLATION. 61 

10. The Province was again called upon to aid the expedi- 
tion against the French in the north. The Assembly con- 
vened on the 16th of July, 1711, and passed an act to raise 
£5000 to defray the expenses of volunteers for this service. 
The governor was gratified with this act, and dismissed the 
Assembly with thanks for its prompt response to the requisi- 
ti(^ns of the queen. This appropriation, in connection with 
what had been previously given for military purposes, was 
the beginning of the public debt in the Province. This Avas 
increased by the French and Indian war, and also by appro- 
priations made during the Revolution. 

11. The affairs of the government were now so equitably 
administered that another meeting of the Assembly was not 
required until the close of the year 1713. At the opening 
of this session the governor simply asked the representatives 
to adopt such measures as, in their judgment, the situation 
of the Province appeared to require; and that provision 
should be made for the support of the government and for 
affirming and ascertaining the respective properties of the 
proprietors and the people. The proceedings were entered 
upon in the best of feeling, and the wholesome laws which 
had been previously rejected by the Council were now re- 
enacted. Provision was made for the support of the govern- 
ment. Quakers were made eligible to all offices and 
privileges, upon making a solemn affirmation or declaration 
instead of an oath. The militia law was established upon 
more liberal principles. An act was passed to prevent 
the elopement of slaves, denying to freedmen the rights 

10. To what was the Province asked to contribute? How did it 
respond? How did tlie governor receive this action of the As- 
sembly? 

11. How was the government administered? When did the As- 
sembly again meet? Wliat was it asked to do? What laws were 
passed ? 

6 



62 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

of property, and laying a tax of £10 upon every negro, 
Indian or mulatto slave imported into the Province. 

12. At this session the county of Hunterdon was estab- 
lished. It was taken from Burlington. The governor again 
thanked the house for the earnest support it had given her 
majesty's government, and for the salutary laws it liad 
passed, after which the Assembly adjourned. 

13. Queen Anne died on the 1st of August, 1714, and 
George I. became king of England. A new commission 
Avas sent to Governor Hunter, and the Assembly was sum- 
moned to meet at Perth Amboy on the 4th of April, 1716. 
On the 27th of November of the same year the Assem- 
bly convened at Chesterfield. Nothing Avas done beyond 
providing for the support of the government. The Assem- 
bly again met at Perth Amboy on the loth of January, 
1718. At this session an act was passed for determining the 
boundary line between New Jersey and New York, and an- 
other settling the division line between East and West New 
Jersey ; for though the Province had been united for politi- 
cal purposes, the landed interests of the proprietors required 
that a division line should be surveyed. 

14. In the following year. Governor Hunter visited Eng- 
land, intending, with the king's permission, to return to his 
Province. Upon liis arrival in England, however, an agree- 
ment w^as entered into by which he was appointed treasurer 
of customs, and William Burnett, Esq., was commissioned 
governor of New Jersey. Governor Burnett was the son of 
the well-known Bishop Burnett, and had therefore inhei'ited 
a name distinguished for learning and piety. He had re- 

12. What new county was formed ? 

13. What occurred in Ejiglandf Wliere and wlien was the Assem- 
bly suMHiioned to meet? What acts were passed in 1718? 

14. Wliat eliange occurred in tlie government of New Jersey? 
What is said of Governor Burnett? 



EARLY LEGISLATION. 63 

ceived from his predecessor an intelligent account of his 
Province, the character of the people and the duties of the 
office he was about to assume. 

15. Governor Burnett arrived in New Jersey in February, 
1721, and met with a cordial reception from the Assembly, 
which convened on the 28th of that month. The new gov- 
ernor was, however, unfortunate in his dealings with the 
Assembly, and soon raised an opposition which greatly em- 
barrassed his administration. His demand for an increased 
and permanent revenue for the support of the govern- 
ment, at a time when the Province was burdened with 
debt, his apparent anxiety to restrict the powers of the 
Assembly, together with the assumptions of his Council, 
created great dissatisfaction. The Assembly formally re- 
sisted his demands, and was therefore dissolved on the 26th 
of May, 1721. 

16. New representatives were soon elected, and a new Assem- 
bly was organized, which was more disposed to yield to the 
wishes of the governor. One of the first acts passed by this 
house was a law to protect his majesty's government in Ame- 
rica against the designs of the Papists. A few emigrants of 
this fiiith had settled in the Province, and the present act 
subjected them to rigid restrictions. All suspected persons 
were required to swear that they " would be faithful and 
bear true allegiance to his majesty, and that they did in their 
hearts abhor deceit and abjure the impious and heretical doc- 
trines of the Pope." A salary was voted for the governor, 
to continue five years, and his excellency and the Assembly 
parted in good feeling. 

15. When did he arrive in the Province, and how was he re- 
ceived? What were the relations between the governor and the As- 
sembly ? 

IG. What was the disposition of the new Assembly ? What acts 
were passed ? 



64 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

17. The next Assembly, which convened in 1723, gave its 
attention principally to the financial concerns of the Prov- 
ince. It authorized the issue of £40,000 on " Bills of 
Credit," the amount to be distributed in proper proportions 
among the counties. The bills were made a legal tender in 
all transactions, and a certain portion were specifically ap- 
plied for the redemption of old bills and the jiayment of in- 
terest thereon. The rate of interest on the public debt was 
fixed at five per cent. 

18. In 1727, Governor Burnett was transferred to the 
Province of Massachusetts, and John Montgomery, Esq., was 
commissioned governor of New Jersey on the 15th of April, 
1728. In this year the General Assembly passed a resolu- 
tion inquiring whether it would not be advantageous to the 
Province of New Jersey to have a governor who would be 
independent of New York. By this resolution no unfavor- 
able action toward the new governor was designed. It was 
simply the intention to express a desire that the Province 
should have a governor of its own. 

19. Governor Montgomery died in July, 1731, and Lewis 
Morris, president of the Council, administered the affairs of 
the government until the 1st of August, 1732, when William 
Cosby, Esq., was commissioned governor. 

20. The General Assembly met on the 26th of April, 1733. 
The representatives called the attention of the governor to 
the fact that hitherto the Assembly had met at irregular 
periods, and that no regular time for holding the elections 

17. To what did the next Assembly give its attention ? 

18. Who was appointed governor of New Jersey? What resohi- 
tion was passed by the Assembly ? 

19. What changes took place in the administration of the govern- 
ment? 

20. What important laws were passed by the Assembly? How 
were these received bv the crown ? 



EARLY LEGISLATION. 65 

had been established. An act was therefore passed to regu- 
late the meetings of Assembly. It provided that a session 
should be held at least once in three years, alternately at 
Burlington and Perth Amboy, and established triennial elec- 
tions. This act received the approval of the governor and 
Council, but was rejected by the king. Acts were passed for 
shcrtening lawsuits, for regulating the practice of law and 
the duties of public officers, concerning the acknowledgment 
and registry of deeds and other conveyances in the several 
counties, and for the enforcement of the ordinance regulating 
fees. All of tliese acts Avere deemed necessary, and Avould 
have been highly beneficial in the administration of justice, 
but they were rejected by the king. 

21. Upon the death of Cosby, in the year 1736, John 
Anderson, president of the Council, assumed executive con- 
trol. He soon afterward died, and the direction of affairs 
was assumed by John Hamilton, Esq., the oldest living mem- 
ber of the Council. Hamilton administered the government 
for nearly two years, when the separation from New York, 
petitioned for, was granted, and the executive department 
of the Province was made independent of the authorities 
on Manhattan Island. 

21. What changes occurred in the administration? What import- 
ant change was made in the government of tlie Province? 
6* E 



CHAPTER VI. 

Land Titles— Frontier Wars — A Colonial Union Proposed. 




COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY. 



1. Lewis Morris was appointed governor of New Jersey 
in 1738. After the separation of the Province from New 
York, some changes were made in the administration of the 
government. The Council was made a separate branch of 
the Legislature, and the governor was not expected to take 
part in the deliberations of that body. 

2. Under the new organization the General Assembly met 
on the 27th of October, 1738. During the long struggle of 
the people against the executive authority of the Province, 
Morris had been a firm friend of the former. His apjioint- 

Chapter YI. — 1. AVho was appointed governor? Wliat changes 
were made in the govern inent ? 

2. Wiien did tiie Assembly first meet? How was tlie appointment 
of Morris received? What is said of his address? 
06 



LAND TITLES. 67 

ment therefore gave great satisfaction in all parts of the 
Province ; but it was soon discovered that the possession of 
power had destroyed his interest in the people and made 
him both selfish and arrogant. In his first address he con- 
gratulated the people on their escape from the authority of 
New York, and pressed upon the Assembly with considerable 
emphasis the questions of salary and support of the govern- 
ment. He promised to give his assent to all bills that were 
proper, and expressed the hope that no other would be 
proposed. 

3. After some delay a bill for the support of the govern- 
ment was agreed upon by the Assembly. It appropriated 
£1440 annually for three years. Of this amount, £1000 were 
set apart for the jirivate use of the governor, and a special 
grant of £500 was made for his expenses in coming to the 
Province. The same act defined the salaries of all other 
public officers. With this appropriation the governor was 
not satisfied, and declared that the sum was insufficient. A 
sharp dispute arose between the governor and the house, 
which resulted in the dissolution of the Assembly, by execu- 
tive order, on the 15th of March, 1739. 

4. The next session of the Assembly began on the 10th of 
April, 1740. The governor's address to this body expressed 
the hope that he would not be asked to sign imj^rojier bills ; 
also that an honest effort would be made to provide for the 
support of the government. The reply of the house showed 
very distinctly that the members were disposed to support 
the action of the previous Assembly. The old quarrel was 
therefore renewed. A long and bitter contest ensued, in which 
the governor refused to sign any bills passed by the Assembly, 

3. How did the Assembly respond? How did tlie governor re- 
ceive the act of the Assembly ? What followed ? 

4. What occurred at the next session ? 



68 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

aud the Assembly as persistently refused to vote any support 
for the government. 

5. A period of nearly two years passed in unsuccessful 
attempts to make a compromise, so that the public business 
might be relieved from unnecessary embarrassment. Finally, 
the quarrel was terminated by the death of the governor, 
which took place in May, 1746. John Hamilton, the oldest 
member of the Council, now became the chief executive of 
the Province. 

6. War was declared between England and France in 
1744 — known in American history as " King George's War." 
The contest soon extended to the American Provinces. The 
French emissaries had long labored to persuade the Indians 
on the frontier to join them in a Avar against the English 
colonies, and many of the savage cruelties visited upon the 
settlers in New England, New York, Pennsylvania and Vir- 
ginia were owing to the influence of the French. There 
seemed to be no remedy for these increasing evils short of 
the destruction of the French power in America. 

7. Finally, in 1740, the British government resolved upon 
the conquest of the French possessions. Louisburg, the cap- 
ital of the French settlement at Cape Breton, had already 
been captured by the Provincial troops from New England, 
aided by the English navy ; and instructions were now sent 
to the colonial governors to organize their forces for a cam- 
paign against Canada. These instructions were laid before 
the Legislature of New Jersey in July of that year, by Gov- 

5. How was ihe quarrel terminated ? 

6. When was war declared between England and France? How 
(lid this aflect the American Provinces? What was the remedy for 
tiiese evils? 

7. What did the British government resolve to do ? What instruc- 
tions were sent to the colonial governors? How ditl New Jersey re- 
spond? How did the war end? 



LAND TITLES. 69 

ernor Hamilton. An act was passed to encourage the en- 
listment of 500 men and to provide for their subsistence and 
transportation. In this act the Assembly declared that they 
were heartily desirous to do all in their power in support of 
his majesty's interests. A like disposition was shown by the 
other colonies, but the military operations were tardily and 
feebly conducted by the British ministry, so that no advan- 
tages were gained by the English. The war was ended 
by the treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, in 1748. This treaty was 
characterized in history as an inglorious surrender on the 
part of the British ministry. 

8. John Hamilton, president of the Council, died in 1747, 
and the administration of the government of New Jersey de- 
volved on John Reading. A commission was soon after 
given to John Belcher, appointing him governor of the 
Province. He was a prudent, mild, judicious officer. He 
seldom opposed the measures of the Assembly, except when 
acting under instructions from the king. During his admin- 
istration several of the laws which had been rejected in the 
time of Governor Morris were passed, and others which had 
been enacted for a limited period were renewed and con- 
tinued. Thus the departments of government were united to 
administer the laws in the interests of the Province and for 
the prosperity of the people. 

9. Large tracts of lands in New Jersey Avere held under 
irregular titles, some by Indian purchasers, others under 
grants given by Andross and other governors of New York. 
Tlie early proprietors were not disposed to disturb the peace 
of the inhabitants by insisting upon their rights to these 
lands, for which they had never executed title-deeds. But 

8. What changes occurred in the administration ? What was tiie 
character of Governor Belcher? Wliat was the character of his 
administration ? 

9. What violent disputes arose in tlie Province? 



70 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

now the proprietary titles liad fallen into the hands of per- 
sons in authority, who were disposed to enforce their claims 
to all lands held by other than proprietary titles. Attempts 
were made to compel all persons to pay rents, or to pur- 
chase the lands they held by virtue of Indian purchases or 
grants from New York. 

10. The people occupying these lands formed associations 
and resolved to maintain their possessions by force, if neces- 
sary. Some of the inhabitants were arrested and brought into 
court, were found guilty of disturbing the peace, and were 
committed to prison ; but in every case these were forcibly 
released by their friends, Thus for a time the laws became 
powerless. • 

11. Some of the leading members of the Council, the chief- 
justice and other officers of the courts were largely inter- 
ested in these lands. They therefore urged upon the Assem- 
bly the passage of an act authorizing the use of the militia 
to enforce the laws. The Assembly, however, did not con- 
sider the matter of sufficient importance, and therefore re- 
fused the use of the military to sustain the courts. Thus, 
though the enforcement of strict justice was deferred, peace 
was preserved in the Province. 

12. Finally, two acts were passed by the Assembly which 
terminated the dispute. One of these was an act to pardon 
all persons who had been guilty of riotous conduct ; the other 
was an act for the suppression and prevention of riots and 
disorders. 

13. Another difficulty arose on the question of taxation. 
The Assembly passed an act taxing all profitable tracts of 

10. How were the settlers on these lands treated? 

11. Who were largely interested in these lands? How did the As- 
sembly treat their demands? 

12. How was the difficulty finally adjusted? 

13. What new trouble arose? How was it terminated? 



A COLONIAL UNION PROPOSED. 71 

land held by patent, deed or survey, on which any improve- 
ments had been made. The Council objected, declaring that 
only such lands as were productive should be taxed, and 
that this was in accordance with the royal instructions. 
Neither party would yield, and thus the government was left 
without support for neaidy three years. Governor Belcher 
at length dissolved the Assembly. A new house met in May, 
1751, which was disposed to terminate the quarrel. A new 
bill was passed, in which lands were classified and were 
taxed in proportion to valuation. 

14. During the administration of Governor Belcher tAvo 
new counties were organized. The first, established by an 
act passed the 19th of January, 1747, was taken from the 
southern portion of Salem county, and was called Cumber- 
land. The other was established by an act passed on the 
8th of June, 1753, taken from Morris county, and was called 
Sussex. 

15. In 1749 the old struggle between England and France 
for the possession of the north-western territory was rencAved, 
and finally resulted in open war. In 1754 an expedition, 
commanded by Colonel Joshua Fry and Major George 
Washington, was sent from Virginia to defend the Ohio. 
These troops fought several battles with the French and 
Indians, and were finally defeated and forced to return to 
the Potomac. 

16. While these military operations were going on, efforts 
were made to unite the Provinces into a general treaty with 
all the Indian tribes on the English frontiers. For this pur- 
pose a convention was called to meet at Albany in June, 
1754. The proclamation from the king authorizing this con- 

14. What new counties were organized ? 

15. What struggle was renewed ? Wliat followed ? 

16. What great convention was called? What action did New 
Jersey take on this subject? 



72 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

vention was laid before the Assembly of New Jersey in April 
of that year. The inhabitants of this Province, however, 
had never been directly concerned in the Indian trade, nor 
had their settlements been disturbed by the inroads of the 
savage warriors. The Assembly therefore declined to take 
part in the proposed treaty, but expressed a willingness to 
join the other colonies in resisting the encroachments of the 
French. New Jei'sey was therefore not represented in the 
Albany convention. 

17. The treaty with the Indians was concluded, and then 
a communication was presented from the English secretary 
of state recommending the colonies to form a general plan 
of union for mutual aid and defence. This proposition was 
favorably entertained, and on the 4th of July, 1754, articles 
of union, drawn up by Benjamin Franklin, were adopted by 
the representatives of the colonies. The plan of union was 
referred for approval to the Provincial Assemblies and to the 
Board of Trade in England. 

18. The articles provided for the appointment of a gov- 
ernor-general and the organization of a senate, to be com- 
posed of representatives from the colonies. All questions of 
war, levying troops, assessment of taxes for general defence 
were to be referred to the senate and the governor-general. 
The Assemblies thought too much power Avas given to the 
governor-general, and that the jjlan was too aristocratic; 
hence they refused to ratify it ; the Board of Trade thought 
it gave too much power to the people, was too democratic, 
and also rejected it. Therefore the union was not effected ; 
but the principles of a united government were freely dis- 
cussed, both by the congress and by the peo^ile, and out of 
this effort sprang ultimately our noble Declaration of Inde- 

17. What did the English government recommend ? How was this 
recommendation acted upon ? 

18. Wliat did these articles provide? How were they received ? 



COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY CHARTERED. 73 

peudence, in 1776, wherein the United States Avere proclaimed 
a free nation. 

19. The desire for a more liberal education than could be 
afforded by the schools already established in the several 
counties was now felt throughout the Province. At the 
solicitation of many of the leading inhabitants, Governor 
Belcher procured, in 1748, from George II., a liberal charter 
for the College of New Jersey, which had been incorporated 
two years previous. This institution was first established at 
Elizabeth. In 1748 it was removed to Newark. In 1756 it 
was permanently established at Princeton, and Nassau Hall 
was erected for its accommodation. It early became one of 
the most celebrated schools in America, and has ever main- 
tained that honorable position. 

19. When and how was the College of New Jersey founded ? 
7 



CHAPTER VII. 

French-and-Indian War — Troo2)s Sent — Braddoclcs Defeat — 
Defence against Indian Invasion. 




ESCAPING ACROSS THE DELAWARE. 



1. The British ministry now resolved to prosecnte the war 
against tlie French and Indians with great vigor. Two regi- 
ments of infantry were sent to America in 1755, and Edward 
Braddock, a young Irish officer of distinction, was sent over 
as commander-in-chief of all the British and Provincial forces 
on the continent. Braddock landed his troops near Alexan- 
dria, in Virginia, and after some delay marched to Cumber- 
land, on the Potomac, where he organized an expedition 
against Fort Du Quesne, in the forks of the Monongahela 
and Alleghany rivers. 



Chapter VII. — 1. Wliat did tlie British ministry resolve to do? 
Wiiat was this war called? What expedition was sent out? 

74 • 



i 



FRENCH-AND-INDIAN WAR. 75 

2. The people of New Jersey dreaded more from an 
attack from Canada, by way of New York, than from the 
French and Indians on the Ohio. The Assembly, therefore, 
provided for the organization and maintenance of a battalion 
of 500 men, to be sent to the army operating on the northern 
frontier. Peter Schuyler, with the rank of colonel, was put 
in command of this force. The popularity of this officer was 
such that the ranks of the battalion were promptly filled, 
and many asked to be enlisted who could not be received. 
The battalion was fully armed, equipped and provided with 
supplies, and was sent to Albany, which was at that time 
the headquarters of the northern army. 

3. Braddock's army marched westward from Fort Cum- 
berland on the 12th of June, and crossed the Alleghany 
mountains, numbering 2200 men. The line of march cor- 
responded neai'ly to what afterward became the " National 
Road." 

4. George Washington, who had volunteered as an aid-de- 
camp on Braddock's staff, knew more about the country to 
be traversed and the enemy to be encountered than any one 
else in the expedition. He had from the beginning advised 
the general to leave the wagons and heavy artillery in the 
rear, and to march in light order, with pack-horses to carry 
supplies. A council of war was held at Little Meadows, 
where Washington renewed his advice and urged it with 
such forcible arguments that it ultimately prevailed. 

5. Braddock selected 1200 men and twelve pieces of light 
cannon for the purpose of making a rapid march against the 

2. "What action did the Assembly take? Who was the commander 
of the first battalion ? , 

3. What is said of Braddock's march ? 

4. Who was an officer in this expedition? What is said of Wash- 
ington ? 

5. How did Braddock condnct his march ? 



76 HISTORY OF NEW JEBSEY. 

enemy. The remainder of the army, with all the heavy 
cannon and baggage, was left at the Meadows, under the 
command of Colonel Dunbar. Washington knew that it was 
necessary to make a rapid march into the enemy's country, 
and to fight the Indians and the French in the American 
fashion, if anything Avas to be accomplished by the expe- 
dition. 

6. Braddock was haughty and arrogant, and sneered at 
the advice of his subordinate officers, who endeavored to 
guard against surprise and ambush to the line that moved so 
slowly through the wilderness. He was confident of an easy 
triumph, and thought more of the glory a great victory 
would shed on his name than of the means whereby that 
victory might be won. He crossed the Monongahela seven 
miles above Fort Du Quesne, and while marching along, 
heedless of the advice of the American ofliicers, his progress 
was suddenly arrested by a deadly fire on the front and left 
flank of his vanguard. No enemy was seen, though it Avas 
clear noonday, but the smoke rising from behind every 
tree and bush, the rattle of musketry, the sharp crack of 
the rifle, the falling soldiers and the confusion in the ad- 
vance column, revealed the presence of a powerful and 
deadly foe. 

7. Washington, seeing the great danger into which they 
had been led, proposed to fight the enemy according to the 
American custom, by skirmishing and firing from the shelter 
of trees, rocks and underbrush ; but this the arrogant com- 
mander refused. He ordered his troops to form and to fire 
in platoons. For three hours the concealed enemy kept up 
a destructive fire on the British line; the ground was soon 

6. What was the character of General Braddock? Wliat befell his 
army? 

7. What did Washington propose ? How was the battle conducted ? 



BRADDOCK'S DEFEAT. 77 

covered with the fiilleu men ; every mounted officer but 
Washington was killed or disabled, and finally the brave 
Braddock himself was mortally wounded. 

8. When the regular soldiers saw their commander fall 
they fled from the field. Washington, though two horses 
had been killed under him, and four balls had passed 
through his clothes, was unhurt, and now assuming com- 
mand, rallied the Provincial troops, and formed a rear- 
guard of such strength that the enemy feared to follow. 

9. The defeated army retreated to Dunbar's camp at Little 
Meadows. After Dunbar had collected the broken fragments 
of the companies, he led the troops back to Shippensburg, 
and thence to Philadelphia. 

10. The report of Braddock's defeat spread rapidly through- 
out the whole country, and filled the frontier settlements 
with alarm. The inhabitants of Virginia, Pennsylvania 
and New York were now without protection against the 
inroads of the savages from the west. When Governor Bel- 
cher received the report of this unexpected event, he sum- 
moned the Assembly of New Jersey to meet him on the 1st 
of August. 

11. Early in the winter marauding bands of Indians in- 
vaded the western and northern counties of Pennsylvania 
and overran the whole country, forcing the inhabitants 
to flee before them, killing all who fell into their hands, 
burning dwellings and driving away stock. In a short 
time the whole country to the banks of the Delaware, on the 
northern frontier, was laid waste. The people residing in 
Northampton county, Pennsylvania, fled for safety into New 



8. How did the battle terminate? 

9. Wliat became of the defeated army? 

10. Wliat was the effect of Braddock's defeat? 

11. What is said of Indian marauders? 



« 



78 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Jersey. Many, by receiving timely notice, were able to 
thresh out their corn and carry it away, and to drive their 
cattle across the Delaware. 

12. The inhabitants of New Jersey were aroused by the 
sufferings of their neighbors, and prejiared not only to de- 
fend their own borders, but to march across the river to help 
their friends. Colonel John Anderson, of Sussex county, 
rapidly collected 400 men and marched to the defence of 
Easton. He pursued the enemy far into Northampton 
county, but without being able to overtake him. The gov- 
ernor promptly sent troops from all parts of the Province to 
the defence of the western frontier. The wealthy inhabitants 
freely advanced the money necessary for the maintenance of 
these troops, and the Assembly, in the middle of December, 
passed an act to provide for the subsistence of the militia 
and for the recall of the battalion under Colonel Schuyler. 
Throughout the Province the people organized companies 
and associations to resist the march of the savage warriors 
and to relieve the distress of their friends west of the 
Delaware. 

13. The army sent against the French in Canada was also 
unsuccessful, though it suffered a less disastrous defeat than 
that which marched against Fort Du Quesne. The French 
not only successfully maintained their position in Canada, 
but also succeeded in taking some of the British posts on the 
lakes. 

14. At the capture of Oswego, Colonel Schuyler and half 
of the New Jersey regiments, which formed a part of the 
garrison, were made prisoners and were sent to Canada. 
They were released at the end of the campaign, on parole 
not to serve against the French for eighteen months. New 

12. What did the inhabitants of New Jersey do? 

13. What is said of the army sent against Canada ? 

14. What befell Colonel Schuyler and the New Jersey troops ? 



DEFENCE AGAINST INDIAN INVASION. 79 

recruits, however, were iiuinediately sent from the Province, 
the regiment was again tilled up to its original strength, and 
Colonel Parker was appointed to its command. A third 
expedition, which had been organized to march against 
Forts Niagara and Frontenac, likewise failed to accomplish 
the object for which it was sent out, but suffered no 
di!= aster. 

15. At the death of General Braddock, Governor Shirley, 
of Massachusetts, was appointed commander-in-chief. He 
summoned the governors of the northern and middle colonies 
to meet him at Albany, New York, in the spring of 1756, to 
determine the plan for the campaign of that year. This 
council resolved to raise 10,250 men, to be sent against 
Niagara, to reduce Ticonderoga and Crown Point, to besiege 
Fort Du Quesne, and to send a small force by way of the 
Kennebec river to alarm the capital of Canada. 

16. The people of New Jersey had during the winter 
erected forts and block-houses along the mountains and at 
favorable points on the east bank of the Delaware, to protect 
themselves against the approaches of the enemy. When the 
plan of campaign for 1756 was made known, they promptly 
filled the requisition made upon the Province, and returned 
their regiment to the headquarters of the army on the north : 
250 volunteers were sent to the frontier, to take the place of 
the troops that were sent to the northern army. The line 
of defence on the Delaware and on the northern bound- 
ary of the Province was under the command of Colonel de 
Hart. 

17. The British government unfortunately sent to America 
incompetent officers to command the expeditions that had 
been determined upon by the Provincial governors. The 

15. What preparations were made for the campaign of 1756? 

16. What was done in New Jersey? 



80 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

entliusiasm of the people of the colonies was met by a cold 
suj)erciliousness that destroyed it. This, added to the tardy 
execution of the plans, brought disgraceful defeat and ended 
the campaign of the second year of the war in disaster to the 
English arms. 

17. What was the character of the British officers sent to America ? 
What effect h*ad this on the people ? 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Close of the French-and-Indian Wars — Military Actio7i of 
New Jersey. 




CAPTAIV GARBINER S RANGERS. 



1. The campaign of 1757 was confined to the single object 
of the capture of Louisburg, Ample force had been pro- 
vided, but the expedition, led by the same tardy officers 
who had failed the year before, was destined to defeat. 
Thus another summer of disaster was added to the two 
already noted. 

2. New Jersey contributed 500 men for the northern ex- 
pedition, and kept on the frontier a body of rangers number- 
ing 120 men, under Captain Gardiner,* who, though they 

* The captain of this company received 6 sliillings, the lieutenants 
5, sergeants 4, corporals 3-and-6-pence, and the private soldier 3 shil- 
lings per day. Each officer and soldier was furnished with a blanket, 

Chapter VIII. — 1. What is said of the campaign of 1757? 
F 81 



82 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

could not always prevent invasions, gave great security to 
the citizens along the east bank of the Delaware. 

3. The troops were w'ithdrawn from the northern frontier 
of New^ York to join the expedition against Louisburg. A 
force of 3000 men -svas left to garrison Castle William, on the 
southern shore of Lake George. The New Jei'sey regiment, 
commanded by Colonel Parker, was part of this detachment. 
An army of 9000 Canadians and Indians, commanded by 
Montcalm, invested the fort. Major-Gen eral Webb made 
strong exertions to relieve the garrison by arousing the 
militia of New York and New Jersey ; 1000 men were sent 
from New Jersey, and 3000 more were put in readiness to 
march on short notice, should their services be required. 
The garrison, however, w^as unable to hold out, and therefore 
surrendered to the enemy. General Webb threw his rein- 
forcements into Fort Edward, checked the progress of the 
enemy, and compelled Montcalm to withdraw his army into 
Canada. The New Jersey regiment, and other prisoners who 
had been carried away by Montcalm, were released, and re- 
turned to New York on parole, not to serve again during 
eighteen months. The regiment was therefore disbanded. 

4. After three years of blunder and failure, the British 
government became fully aroused; the ministry now saw 
that greater vigor must be infused into the campaigns in 
America, or the colonies would be overrun by the enemy. 

an under jacket, a kersey jacket lapelled, buckskin breeches, 2 check 
shirts, 2 pairs of shoes, 2 pairs of stockings, a leather cap and a 
hatchet. 

2. What did New Jersey contribute ? What is said of Captain Gar- 
dinei-'s rangers? 

3. What is said of the siege of Fort William? How did New 
Jersey contribute to this expedition? What befell the New Jersey 
regiment? 

4. What was thought of the war in England? What in America? 



CLOSE OF THE FRENCH-AND-INDIAN WARS. 83 

The Provincial forces were not discouraged by the strengtli 
of the foe, but were heartily sick of the gross mismanage- 
ment inflicted upon them by the British ministry. The 
American officers and people felt themselves fully able, if 
left to their own resources, to defend their homes against 
the French and Indians ; but the arrogance of the English 
officers, added to their utter unskillfulness in conducting 
campaigns, had greatly oppressed and embarrassed the 
colonists. 

5. In this hour of gloom, William Pitt, by far the ablest 
statesman in England, was called to the control of public 
affiiirs. He came into power, as secretary of state, in June, 
1757. Energy and sound judgment were at once infused 
into every department of the government. Loudon, the 
tardy commander in America, was recalled, and Abercrom- 
bie was apj)ointed general-in-chief. 12,000 English troops, 
and a large fleet under the command of Admiral Boscawen, 
were sent over to aid the Provincial forces. Pitt addressed 
stirring letters to the several colonies, and asked them to 
raise 20,000 men, promising, in the name of the British gov- 
ernment, to supply arms, tents and provisions. He also 
promised to repay the money that would be expended in 
recruiting and clothing the troops. 

6. The vigorous policy foreshadowed, and the liberal offers 
transmitted through these letters, electrified every heart and 
roused the people in every colony to the greatest activity. 
New England immediately raised 15,000 men ; New York, 
2700; New Jersey, 1000; Pennsylvania, 3000; and Vir- 
ginia, 2000. Other colonies in the South reported smaller 
numbers ; but so great was the excitement that in May, 1758, 

5. Who was called to control public affairs in England? What is 
said of Pitt? What did he do? 

6. How did tlii.s iJoiicy affect the colonies? How many troops were 
raised ? 



84 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

when Abercrombie took command of the army, he found 
over 50,000 troojis ready to obey his orders. 

7. The phm of the campaign was also comprehensive. 
Louisburg, Ticonderoga and Fort Du Quesne were the prin- 
cipal points against which powerful expeditions were to be 
sent. The first IjIow was directed against Louisburg, a place 
so strong that it had been styled the Gibraltar of America. 
Forty armed vessels and a land force of 12,000 men in- 
vested the town early in June, and, after a siege of 
about fifty days, during which all the French shipping in 
the harbor had been destroyed, compelled the enemy to 
surrender. 

8. The expedition against Ticonderoga did not succeed in 
taking the fort, but inflicted severe punishment on the French 
by defeating them in a vigorous battle, and by capturing 
their naval station and depot of supplies at Frontenac. 

U. The army in Pennsylvania, numbering about 7000 men, 
sent against Fort Du Quesne, was commanded by General 
Forbes. Colonel George Washington, who had three times 
marched over this ground, was one of the officers in this ex- 
pedition. When the army arrived within a few days' march 
of Fort Du Quesne, the regiment in command of Washing- 
ton was ordered to make a rapid march to surprise the 
enemy, while the main force followed more slowly. 

10. The French-and-Iudian garrison, having heard of the 
success of tlie northern expeditions, and of the defeat of the 
French on the lakes and at Niagara, was greatly demoral- 
ized. Wlien the Indian scouts brought in the reports of the 
rapid approach of Washington's regiment, the troops aban- 
doned the fort and set fire to the buildings on the 24th of 

7. Wliat was the plan of campaign ? 

8. What did the expedition aganist Ticonderoga acconiplisli ? 

9. What is said of tlie army in Peimsylvania ? 
10. How did tills expedition terminate? 



CLOSE OF THE FRENCH-AND-INDIAN WARS. 85 

November, 1758, and fled dowu the Ohio river. Washing- 
ton took possession of the ruins on the following day. The 
British flag was hoisted, and the place was named Fort Pitt, 
in honor of the distinguished English statesman by whose 
vigorous policy the enemy had been expelled from his strong- 
holds in America. 

11. While the colonies were prosecuting the w^ar against 
the foreign enemies with great vigor, they were also zealous 
in their efforts to re-establish peaceful relations with the In- 
dians. In October, 1758, a convention was held at Easton, 
which lasted twenty -one days. The governors of New Jersey 
and Pennsylvania, attended by members of their Legisla- 
tures and many citizens, mostly Quakers, were present to rep- 
resent the interests of the settlers. The Indians were repre- 
sented by chiefs and deputies from fifteen different tribes, 
accompanied by many warriors with their women and chil- 
dren. After a long and full discussion of all matters in 
dispute, the points of difference were satisfactorily settled, 
and a treaty of peace was agreed upon and signed by the 
delegates. Thus, at the end of the fourth year of the war, 
the English armies were victorious in the field, and the 
power of diplomacy was triumphant in the assembly. 

12. The successes of the military campaigns in the north,* 
terminating with the capture of Montreal in 1760, brought 
peace and safety to all the English Provinces. 

* The British ministry, elated witli their success, sent powerful 
armies into Canada early in the spring of 1759. Quebec and Montreal 
were besieged, and the forts on Niagara and on Lake Chaniplain were 
attacked by armies confident of victory. At the close of tlie campaign, 
Quebec and all the forts on the lakes had fallen. Montreal alone re- 
mained in the possession of the French. In September, 1760, this 

11. What great Indian council was held this year? What year of 
the war was this, and how did it end? 

12. How did the war terminate? 

8 



86 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

13. During the years of this struggle the people of New 
Jersey were never discouraged by the failure brought upon 
the Provincial troops through the incompetency of British 
officers, but steadily and promptly provided their quota of 
men and money to sustain the army. Upon the receipt of 
the spirited letter from Pitt, the Assembly, instead of raising 
its quota of 500 men, doubled that number, and to fill the 
ranks immediately offered, a bounty of £12 per man, in- 
creased the pay of officers, and voted the sum of £50,000 for 
the maintenance of their troops. At the same session an act 
was passed providing for the erection of barracks at Burling- 
ton, Trenton, New Brunswick, Perth Amboy and Elizabeth, 
each large enough to accommodate 300 men. 

14. On the 31st of August, 1757, in the midst of the war. 
Governor Belcher died, in the 76th year of his age. For 
two years previous his health had been so infirm that it was 
necessary for the Assembly to meet him at his residence at 
Elizabeth. At the death of the governor the administration 
again devolved on John Reading. Francis Bernard was 
commissioned governor on the 13th of June, 1758. He con- 
ducted his administration in perfect harmony with the Legis- 
lature until the 4th of July, 1760. He was then transferred 
to Massachusetts, and Thomas Boone became governor of 
New Jersey for one year, when he was transferred to South 
Carolina, and Josiah Hardy was commissioned governor of 

stronghold was forced to capitulate, and with it all the fortifications, 
ships and munitions of war in Canada were surrendered to the Eng- 
lish. This was the last blow in the series of successes that destroyed 
the power of France on the Western continent. Thus ended the 
French-and-Indian war. 

13. What is said of the coaduct of New Jersey during this war ? 

14. When did Governor Belcher die? Who succeeded him? When 
was Franklin appointed governor? When did his administration 
terminate? 



THE LAST COLONIAL GOVERNOR. 87 

New Jersey. Hardy was soon after appointed to the consul- 
ate of Cadiz, and William Franklin, the son of Benjamin 
Franklin, of Pennsylvania, was appointed governor in the 
spring of 1763. Thus within five years New Jersey had 
five executives. Franklin was the last of the colonial gov- 
ernors. His administration was terminated by the people in 
1776, when they declared New Jersey to be an independent 
State. 



CHAPTER IX. 

"Taxation Without Representation is Tyranny. 




REQUESTING STAMP OFFICERS TO RESION. 



1. England had for many years carried on wars against 
France and Spain, both in Europe and in America, and had 
thus contracted a large public debt, from which the people 
clamored for relief The strength and wealth exhibited by 
the American colonies in their prompt response to the calls 
for men and iiioney to prosecute the French-and-Indian war 
revealed to the British ministry the wealth of their trans- 
atlantic possessions. The government, therefore, was easily 
persuaded to levy taxes on the property and commerce of 
the Americans, in order to raise funds for the depleted treas- 
ury of England. 



Chapter IX. — 1. How did England contract her debt? 
tlie ministry seek relief? 
88 



How did 



TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION. 89 

2. The same achievements, however, that had revealed the 
wealth of the Provinces had also demonstrated their strength. 
The failure and humiliation brought upon the people through 
the weakness of British army officers during the first three 
years of the war, and the subsequent successes when com- 
bined efforts Avere directed by skillful commanders, taught 
the colonies the power and wisdom of union. 

3. Their property, their lives and their homes had been 
defended by military campaigns and expeditions wherein 
the whole strength of the colonial governments had been 
united for the attainment of a single purpose. The infer- 
ence, therefore, was natural that personal liberty and the 
right of self-government would be best defended by making 
them the common cause of all the people. The knowledge 
of their strength also gave the American freemen greater 
boldness in asserting and defending their just rights and 
chartered privileges. 

4. The first attempt of the ministry to levy taxes on the 
colonies without their consent was promptly met with the 
declaration, which afterward became the political maxim 
of America: "Taxation Without Representation is 
Tyranny!" 

5. The mother-country might justly have invited the colonial 
Assemblies to make appropriations for the use of the king's 
government, but the British ministry was too proud to ask as 
a favor what it believed it had the power at least, if not the 
right, to exact as lawful dues. Ten years were spent in dis- 
cussing the principles of taxation, during which time several 
schemes were proposed and numerous laws enacted, all of 

2. What lesson did the late war teach ? 

3. How was the lesson of union learned? 

4. How was the attempt to levy taxes met ? 

5. What might the mother-country have done ? How were the prin- 
ciples of taxation discussed? 

8 «• 



90 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

which were resisted witli ti dignified firmiie.s.s that could not 
fail to command the respect of the friends of freedom through- 
out the world. 

6. In 1765 the "Stamp Act" was passed, which declared 
that no legal instrument should be valid unless it bore the 
government stamp. The passage of this act aroused the 
American people to the most intense excitement, and called 
forth some of the most eloquent denunciations of tyranny and 
oppression that grace the pages of history. Benjamin Frank- 
lin, who had been sent to England a second time on public 
business, wrote home to Charles Thompson, of Philadeljihia : 
"The sun of liberty has set. You must light up the candles 
of industry and economy." To this remark, Thompson re- 
plied : "I am apprehensive that other lights will be the 
consequence." 

7. The colonies, with remarkable unanimity, declared that 
the General Assemblies had the sole right and power to lay 
taxes upon the inhabitants, and that eveiy attempt to vest 
such power elsewhere than in the Assemblies tended to the 
destruction of British as well as American liberty. A reso- 
lution was passed by the Massachusetts Legislature declaring 
that a congress, composed of commissioners from the colonies, 
ought to be held at New York on the first Tuesday of Octo- 
ber, 1765, to consider what action the colonies should take to 
resist the attempts of the home government to tax the Ameri- 
can people without their consent. The Massachusetts Assem- 
bly appointed three commissioners to attend the congress, 
and addressed a circular letter to the other colonies, urging 
them to make similar appointments. 

8. This circular was laid before the Assembly of New 
Jersey on the 20th of June, 1765. Governor Franklin 

6. When was the Stamp Act passed? What was its effect? 

7. What did the colonies declare? What did Massachusetts recom- 
mend? 



A CONVENTION CALLED. 91 

favored the schemes of the ministry, and therefore ojiposed 
the Massachusetts proposition, and exerted his influence to 
defeat the appointment of commissioners to the " Stamp 
Act Congress." The Assembly deferred action on the cir- 
cular until near the close of the session, when, in a hasty 
manner, the speaker was directed to transmit a somewhat 
ambiguous answer to the Massachusetts Assembly. 

9. The inhabitants of New Jersey refused to endoi'se this 
action of their representatives, and demanded that a conven- 
tion be called to appoint commissioners to the congress at 
New York. The speaker of the house therefore issued a call 
to the members of the Assembly to meet in convention at 
Amboy. The members responded promptly to the call, and 
the Amboy convention appointed Joseph Ogden, the speaker 
of the Assembly, Hendrick Fisher and Joseph Borden, dele- 
gates to the congress. These proceedings were denounced 
by Governor Franklin as being irregular and unconstitu- 
tional. The measure was, however, defended by the As- 
sembly at its next session, and heartily aj)proved by the 
people. 

10. The delegates from the colonies assembled in New 
York in October, and agreed upon a united memorial to the 
king and parliament on the subject of the rights and griev- 
ances of the American people. The declaration of rights 
and the petition for redress were approved by the Assem- 
blies of the several Provinces, and were transmitted to 
England. Some of the representatives in this congress 
thought these petitions should be transmitted by the con- 
vention ; others believed they should be first submitted to 

8. How was this circular received in New Jersey ? 

9. How did the inhabitants receive tlie act of the Assembly? What 
was done in reference thereto? What did Governor Franlclin say of 
tliese proceedings? 

10. What action did tlie New Yorlc congress take? 



92 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the Assemblies for their action, and that copies should be 
sent to the king from each colony, with the endorsement 
of the Assembly. Joseph Ogden, of New Jersey, advo- 
cated the latter mode, and therefore refused to sign the 
petitions with the other members of the convention, 

11. The Assembly of New Jersey met on the 27th of No- 
vember, at the request of Speaker Ogden and some of the 
members of the house. Ogden's refusal to sign the petitions 
of the convention was disapproved. He therefore resigned 
his seat in the Assembly, and Cortland Skinner was chosen 
speaker. The report of the proceedings of the meeting at 
New York was laid before the Assembly, and was unani- 
mously approved. A series of patriotic resolutions was 
adopted, and the house declared that as the late act of Par- 
liament was found to be utterly subversive of the rights and 
privileges of the people, originally secured by grants and 
concessions from the Crown of Great Britain, they considered 
it a duty to themselves, their constituents and posterity, 
to leave a record of their resolves upon their journal. 

12. These resolutions declared that the people were at- 
tached to the king and his government, and were ever will- 
ing to give them a hearty support, as they had recently in 
the wai'S against France and Sjiain ; that the inhabitants 
of the American colonies were entitled to all the rights and 
liberties of natural-born subjects within the kingdom of Great 
Britain ; that it is inseparably essential to the freedom of 
the people and the undoubted rights of Englishmen that no 
taxes be imposed on them but with their own consent, given 
personally or by their representatives ; that the people of 
this colony cannot be represented in the Parliament of Great 

11. What did the Assembly of New Jersey do in reference to the 
action of tlieir delegates in congress ? How did they receive the pro- 
ceedings of congress? What patriotic declarations were made? 

12. What did the resolutions of the Assembly declare? 



THE ASSEMBLY'S RESOLUTIONS. 93 

Britain ; that the only representatives of the people are per- 
sons chosen by themselves ; and that no taxes can be im- 
posed under the constitution of this Province, granted by his 
majesty's predecessors, excejjt by their own Legislature ; 
that all supplies being free gifts, the people of Great 
Britain cannot grant to his majesty the property of the 
people of this colony without their consent ; that the profits 
of trade arising from this colony eventually enrich Great 
Britain ; that giving unlimited power to Parliament to im- 
pose taxes on the colonies by stamped 2:iaper or otherwise 
appears to be unconstitutional, contrary to the rights of the 
subjects and dangerous in its character ; that any encum- 
brance which in eflEect restrains the liberty of the press in 
America is an encroachment upon the subject's liberty; 
that the extension of the powers of the court of admiralty 
within this Province is a violent innovation of the rights of 
trial by jury, which this house holds most dear and invalu- 
able; that as the tranquillity of this Province hath been in- 
terrupted through fear of the dreadful consequences of the 
Stamp Act, the officers who continue to administer the affairs 
of the Province in the accustomed manner are entitled to the 
support of the Legislature. The people were advised to 
preserve the peace and good order of the government, and to 
unite their endeavors with the inhabitants of the other colo- 
nies in efforts to secure the repeal of the Stamp Act. 

13. William Coxe had been appointed stamp officer for 
ISTew Jersey, to distribute the stamps through the Province. 
The law was to take effect on the 1st of November, but early 
in September, Coxe resigned his office, being unwilling to 
attempt to perform this obnoxious duty. 

14. An organization of freemen was established in Connec- 

13. What is said of the stamp officer and tlie Stamp Act? 

14. What is said of the "Sons of Liberty"? What did they require 
the stamp officers to do ? 



94 HISTORY OF NEW JEJRSET. 

ticut and New York, and soon extended to New Jersey, called 
the "Sons of Liberty." Members of this society called on 
all the stamp officers in the Province and required them to 
write public letters of resignation. In November, a number 
of the inhabitants of Salem county, learning that John Hat- 
ton had made application to be appointed stamp officer, com- 
pelled him to make a declaration that he would not accept 
the office to distribute stamps. 

15. A ship, bearing stamped paper for New Jersey, Penn- 
sylvania and Maryland, arrived at Philadelphia on the 5th 
of October, convoyed by a sloop of war. As these vessels 
reached Gloucester Point, flags in the harbor were hoisted at 
half-mast, the bells were muffled and every countenance as- 
sumed the semblance of affliction. 

16. On the last of October the newspapers were put in 
mourning for their approaching extinction, for the editors 
had resolved to suspend publication rather than use stamped 
paper. All other business requiring the use of this paper was 
suspended. 

17. The refusal to submit to the Stamp Act caused the 
total suspension of legal proceedings. The members of the 
bar in New Jersey met about the middle of February, 1766, 
at New Brunswick, to consider the propriety of continuing 
their practice, but their convention was waited upon by a 
delegation of the "Sons of Liberty," who declared that the 
people were not satisfied with the suspension of law pro- 
ceedings, and recommended the lawyers to resume busi- 
ness. This they resolved to do on the first of the ensuing 
April. The " Sons of Liberty" also called upon the pro- 

15. How were the stamps brought to the Provinces? 

16. What is said of the newspapers? 

17. What efiect had the refusal to obey the Stamp Act on business in 
the Province ? 



PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATIONS FORMED. 95 

thonotaries of the several counties and demanded that their 
offices be reopened for the transaction of business. 

18. Meanwhile, the inhabitants of the several colonies had 
organized themselves into protective associations, and had re- 
solved not to import or to use imported goods from England, 
nor to enter into any transactions that would require the use 
of government stamps. This resolution of the people seri- 
ously aifected English manufacturing and commercial inter- 
ests, and thus secured a powerful party in Great Britain in 
favor of the repeal of the Stamp Act. The merchants in 
London and Liverpool, and the manufacturers in Manches- 
ter, finding their trade suddenly cut off, filled the country 
with cries against the policy that deranged the whole busi- 
ness of a vast portion of the empire. Under this powerful 
combination the pride of the British ministry was broken. 
A new ministry was organized in March, 1766, and the 
Stamp Act was repealed. 

19. The repeal was hailed throughout the colonies with 
joy ; the people felt that they had escaped a great calamity. 
The rejoicings, however, were of short duration. The British 
government was unwilling to relinquish the hope of drawing a 
revenue from the American colonies, and hence new schemes 
of taxation were soon devised. 

20. The ministry and Parliament thought the colonists 
objected only to the manner and not to the principle of 
taxation. They therefore framed a bill in 1767 impos- 
ing a duty on glass, paper and other articles imported. 
This w'as regarded by the American people as a renewed 

18. What associations were formed ? How did these affect the 
English manufticturers and Englisli commerce? What was the 
result? 

19. How was tlie repeal of the act received ? 

20. What new attempt at taxation was made? How was this re- 
ceived in America? 



96 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

attempt at taxation without representation. The law, there- 
fore, met with firm resistance in all the colonies, and the non- 
importation pledges were renewed, with disastrous results to 
British trade. 

21. The Assembly of New Jersey sent an address to the 
king, dated May 7, 1768. This paper clearly set forth the 
condition of the inhabitants of the Province, and defined 
their rights and privileges as English subjects. It declared 
that one of the rights vested in the people is the privilege 
of being exempt from any taxation but such as is imposed 
on them by themselves or by their representatives ; and this 
they estimate so invaluable that they are fully persuaded no 
other right can exist without it. 

22. Parliament was finally forced to remodel the law, and 
in 1770 the duties were abolished on all articles save three- 
pence a pound on tea. The colonists then modified their 
non-importation agreements, so as to prohibit only the im- 
portation of tea. 

23. In defiance of the determination of the American 
people not to use a pound of tea shipped from England as 
long as the tax law remained unrepealed, large cargoes were 
sent to the several colonies by the " East India Company," 
whose agenis .were authorized to collect the tax and sell the 
tea. Public meetings were held in every colony, and the 
people resolved that the tea should not be sold. In 
many places even the landing was refused, and the com- 
missioners appointed to receive the cargoes were requested 
to resign. The people protested against the attempts 

21. Wliat principle of government was announced by the Assembly 
in 1768 ? 

22. How was the tax law modified? What effect had this modifi- 
cation ? 

23. How did the English attempt to force tea upon the American 
people? How was this attempt resisted? 



THE ARRIVAL OF THE TEA SHIPS. 97 

of the Bi'itish ministry to force them to receive articles 
they did not want and to pay taxes levied without their 
consent. 

24. The tea ships entered the Delaware in the fall of 1773. 
They were warned by the pilots not to enter the harbor, as 
it would be unsafe to attempt to land. The vessels, there- 
fore returned to England, carrying back their cargoes. In 
Charleston, South Carolina, the tea was stored away in damp 
cellars, where it was left to rot ; and in Boston 342 chests 
were broken open on the ships, and the tea was thrown over- 
board into the sea. 

25. Tlie foreign trade of New Jersey was small, and 
therefore the action of the people of the Province had less 
effect upon the commerce of Great Britain than that of the 
neighboring Provinces. But neither the people of Massa- 
chusetts in their extremest action, nor the merchants of New 
York and Philadelphia in their non-importation resolutions, 
ever failed to receive the support and unqualified endorse- 
ment of the people of New Jersey. 

26. In October, 1769, the Assembly resolved that the 
thanks of the house be given to the merchants and traders 
of this colony, and of the colonies of New York and Penn- 
sylvania, for their patriotic conduct in withholding im- 
portations of British merchandise until the restrictive acts 
of Parliament be repealed. Public meetings were held in all 
parts of the Province, which endorsed these resolutions and 
expressed like sentiments in support of the American 
merchants. 

27. On the 8th of February, 1774, the Assembly provided 

24. How were the tea ships received in the Delaware? 

25. How did these tax laws affect the people of New .Terse)' ? AVere 
they therefore less active in resisting? 

26. What action did the Assembly take on this snbject? How were 
these rt'solutions received by the people? 

1) (i 



98 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

for the appointment of a committee of correspondence and 
inquiry* to obtain early and authentic intelligence of all the 
acts and resolutions of the British Parliament, or the proceed- 
ings of the administration that may have any relation to or 
may afieet the liberties or privileges of his majesty's subjects 
in the British colonies in America ; and to maintain a corre- 
spondence Avith other colonies respecting these important 
considerations, and to lay their proceedings before the house. 
This action was reported to the Assemblies of the other 
Provinces. 

28. These proceedings gave great offence to King George ; 
and as the Bostonians were most violent in their resentment, 
the heaviest stroke of the royal disfavor fell upon that city. 
The port of Boston was closed and the custom-house trans- 
ferred to Salem. The Provincial charter of Massachusetts 
was revoked, and persons accused of resisting the king's 
authority were ordered to be sent to England for trial and 
punishment. The " Boston Port Bill" went into operation 
on the first day of June, 1774. 

29. On that day the committee of correspondence sent a 
reply to a communication that had been received from Mas- 
sachusetts. In this was expressed the sympathy of the people 
of New Jersey with the inhabitants of Boston, and the course 
of the British ministry was condemned in the strongest terms. 
Public meetings were called in different parts of the Prov- 
ince, in which the people resolved to support their suffering 

* James Kinsey, Stephen Crane, Hendrick Fisher, tSamuel Tucker, 
John Wetherill, Robert Friend Price, .John Hinchman, John Nehelni 
and Edward Taylor were appointed the committee. 

27. What important committee was appointed by the Assembly ? 

28. How were these proceedings regarded in Great Britain ? What 
punishment was inflicted on Boston ? 

29. How did the people of New Jersey sympathize with the people 
of Massachusetts? Where was the first public meeting held? 



A COLONIAL CONGEESS CALLED. 99 

neighbors of Massachusetts. The first of these meetings took 
place on the 6th of June, at Lower Freehoki. 

30. On the eleventh of the same month a meeting of the 
citizens was held at Newark, at which they agreed to address 
letters to the inhabitants of every county in the Province, re- 
commending them to appoint local committees of correspond- 
ence. It was resolved to hold a convention at New Bruns- 
wick on the 21st of July. Similar action was taken in the 
other colonies, and it was finally agreed that a colonial con- 
gress should meet in Philadelphia on the 5th of September, 
1774. 

31. Governor Franklin refused to convene the Assembly. 
The people therefore resolved to take the matter of a redress 
of grievances into their own hands. In response to a circular 
sent out by the Newark meeting, the inhabitants of the sev- 
eral counties elected county delegates, which met in general 
convention on the 21st of July, at New Brunswick, and 
elected delegates to the congress. Seventy-two delegates 
were in attendance at this convention. Stephen Crane was 
chosen chairman, and Jonathan D. Sergeant, clerk. This 
convention appointed a " general committee of correspond- 
ence" * for the Province. 

* This committee consisted of William Peartree Smith, John Chet- 
wood, Isaac Ogden, Joseph Borden, Robert Field, Isaac Pierson, Isaac 
Smith, Samuel Tucker, Abraham Hunt and Hendrick Fisher. 

30. What is said of the meeting at Newark ? 
• 31. What important action was taken by the people? 



CHAPTER X. 

The Bight of Government Assumed by the People — 
Preparations for War. 







BURXINU TEA AT GREENWICH. 



1. The first Continental Congress met in Car23enters' Hall, 
Philadelphia, on the 5th of September, 1774. Delegates 
were present from eleven colonies,* and on the 14th those 
from North Carolina appeared and took their seats. New 
Jersey was represented by James Kiusey, William Living- 
ton, John B. Hart, Stephen Crane and Richard Smith. The 
regular business was begun on the morning of the 7th, after 
an impressive prayer by Rev. Jacob Duche. Congress re- 
mained in session until the 26th of October, and the meas- 
* North Carolina and Georgia were not represented. 



Chapter X. — 1. Where did the first Continental Congress meet? 
Who represented New Jersey ? 
100 



BATTLE OF LEXINGTON. 101 

ures decided upon received the approbation of the American 
people. 

2. The address to the inhabitants of the colonies, coun- 
seling them to maintain their just riglits at all hazard, and 
that to the people of England, asking an impartial judgment 
on their action, and their petition to the king, were written 
v/ith such marked ability and wisdom, that the great William 
Pitt, Earl of Chatham, said in the House of Lords : " I 
must declare and avow, that for solidity of reasoning, force 
of sagacity and wisdom of conclusion, under such a com- 
plication of circumstances, no nation or body of men can 
stand in preference to the general Congress at Philadel- 
phia." 

3. When Congress adjourned, to meet again on the 10th 
of May, 1775, unless England should sooner consent to re- 
dress their grievances, the members earnestly hoped that 
another meeting would not be necessary ; but they were 
doomed to disappointment. Pride and love of power had 
made Great Britain both blind and obstinate. Additional 
laws were enacted by Parliament for the punishment of 
America, and soldiers were sent from England to enforce 
obedience. 

4. From New Hampshire to Georgia the people were 
aroused to a true sense of their danger. They accepted the 
last resort, and determined to oppose foreign troops with 
freemen's steel. Early in September, 1774, the people began 
to arm, organize and drill. On the morning of the 19th of 
April, 1775, on the green at Lexington, Massachusetts, the 
first blood of the Revolution was shed. The report of the 
skirmish spread rapidly from house to house and from 

2. What was the character of the addresses issued by Congress? 

3. How did Congress adjourn ? 

4. What is said of the spirit of the people? Where was the first 
battle of the Revolution fought? 

9« 



102 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

colony to colony, until all hearts were inflamed. In a few 
days the patriots of New England were in arms, and before 
the end of April more than 20,000 men were forming camps 
and building fortifications around the British army in 
Boston. 

5. At daAvn of day, on the 10th of May, Colonel Ethan 
Allen, at the head of a company of " Green Mountain Boys," 
appeared before Fort Ticonderoga and demanded its sur- 
render. The British ofiicer in command, suddenly aroused 
from his sleep, asked, " By what authority do you demand 
it?" "By the authority of the Great Jehovah and the Con- 
tinental Congress!" said Allen. The fort was surrendered, 
and two days later Crown Point was captured. The cannon, 
small arms and the large stores of ammunition in these forts 
were of vast service to the Americans in the beginning of the 
war. The battle of Bunker Hill was fought on the 17th 
of June following, and thus the war of the Revolution was 
fully begun. 

6. On the 10th of May, the very day on which Colonel 
Ethan Allen had captured Ticonderoga, the second Conti- 
nental Congress assembled in the State House, in Philadel- 
phia. As their first duty, the representatives sent a most 
loyal petition to the king and a conciliatory address to the 
people of England ; but at the same time they said to the 
British government, "We have counted the cost of this con- 
test, and find nothing so dreadful as voluntary slavery." 
The presence of a strong foreign force and the blaze of war 
already lighting up New England admonished Congress that 
delay would be disastrous to the cause of liberty. 

7. Armed resistance had now become necessary, and Con- 
gress immediately voted to raise an army of 20,000 men, and 

5. What other battles were fought ? 

6. What is said of the second meeting of Congress? 

7. Wliat liad become necessary? What preparations were made? 



THE TEA BURNED. 103 

appointed George Washington commander-in-chief of the Con- 
tinental forces. 

8. The people of New Jersey heartily endorsed the ac- 
tion of Congress, sent contributions to aid the people at 
Boston, and heartily approved their conduct in resisting the 
British government. On the 16th of November, 1774, a 
Vv_'ssel with a cargo of tea quietly entered the Cohansey creek, 
and landed at Greenwich, Gloucester county. The tea was 
stored in a cellar. On the 22d, forty men, disguised as 
Indians, carried the chests to an adjoining field and burned 
them. 

9. A resolution of Congress recommended that " commit- 
tees of superintendeijce and correspondence" should be ap- 
pointed in the counties of the several colonies, to act as a sort 
of independent governmental authority during the progress 
of the Revolution. 

10. England feared the union of the colonies more than 
anything else, and the governors of the respective Provinces 
were instructed to use all their powers to prevent such a 
union. Governor Franklin had long refused to call the 
Assembly together, notwithstanding the people had fre- 
quently and urgently jietitioned for a session. The first re- 
presentatives to Congress were therefore appointed by a con- 
vention of delegates, and not by the Assembly. 

11. When the Legislature met in January, 1775, the gov- 
ernor delivered an address, in which he reviewed " the late 
alarming transactions in this and neighboring colonies," and 
endeavored to prevail on the members of the Assembly to 
separate themselves from their neighbors, to reject the pro- 
ceedings of Congress and to send a petition to the king for 

8. What was done in New Jersey? What occurred at Greenwich ? 

9. What did Congress recommend? 

10. What did England fear? AVhat was done to prevent this? 

11. What course did Goveinor I'ranklin adopt? 



104 HISTORY OF NEW JEBSEY. 

redress of grievances. He assured them that such a petition 
would be treated with respect by the ministry and the Crown. 
He warned them that the opposite course woukl lead to 
bloodshed, and that all who joined in those proceedings 
would be summarily punished. He closed the address by 
saying: "You have now pointed out to you, gentlemen, two 
roads — one evidently leading to peace, happiness and the 
restoration of the public tranquillity ; the other inevitably 
conducting you to anarchy and misery and all the horrors of 
a civil war." 

12. The New Jersey delegation reported the proceedings 
of Congress to the Assembly on the 11th of January. They 
were, notwithstanding the governor's \^arnings, unanimously 
approved, the Quaker members of the Legislature excepting 
only to such parts as seemed to wear the appearance of a 
resort to arms. The house resolved that the same gentlemen 
who had represented the Province in the last Congress should 
continue to represent it until otherwise ordered. 

13. The representatives of the people reproved the gov- 
ernor for having neglected to call a meeting of the Assembly 
at a much earlier date, and reminded him that much incon- 
venience to the people might have been thus prevented. 
They assured him that they would not give their approbation 
to measures destructive to the welfare of their constituents ; 
that they would do all in their power to preserve the excel- 
lent form of government under which they at present lived ; 
and that they intended neither to usurp the rights of others, 
nor to suffer any rights vested in them by the constitution to 
be wrested out of their hands by any person or persons what- 
soever. 

14. The Assembly's answer to the governor's address 

12. How did tlie Assembly receive the proceedings of Congress ? 

13. How did the Assembly reply to the governor's message? 



PETITION AND ADDRESS TO THE KING. 105 

closed by saying: "We sincerely lament the unhappy differ- 
ences which at present subsist between Great Britain and the 
colonies. We shall heartily rejoice to see the time when 
they shall subside, or exist consistently with the rights and 
interests of both, which we ardently hope is not far off; and 
though we cannot conceive how a separate petition of one 
colony is more likely to succeed than the united petition of 
all, yet in order to show our desire to promote such a pur- 
pose by every px'oper means, we shall make use of the means 
pointed out by your excellency, in the hope that it will meet 
that attention that you are pleased to assure us will be paid 
to the representatives of the people." 

15. The tone of the governor's reply to the Assembly was 
in good temper, and clearly showed that his excellency had 
discovered that the people were resolved on full redress — 
that they had counted the cost of the contest and had re- 
solved to endure all in defence of their personal rights and 
liberties. 

16. The house adopted a petition to the king, which re- 
cited the whole catalogue of the grievances, and prayed that 
the redress promised from his majesty by the governor might 
be speedily granted. But inasmuch as the Assembly had 
already ratified the proceedings of Congress, this petition, 
with similar documents from other colonies, received but 
little consideration. 

17. The houses of Parliament joined in an address to the 
king, declaring that there was an open rebellion in Massa- 
chusetts, and called upon the ministry to suppress it promptly 
by force of arms. A proposition was made by Lord North, 
which proposed full pardon to any colony whose General 

14. How did this address close? 

15. "What did the governor's reply show? 

16. What is said of the petition to the king? 

17. What was done in England ? 



106 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Assembly Avould make provision for the support of civil 
government and the administration of justice within its own 
territory; and gave assurances that Parliament would not 
tax the people so long as such provision should be made. 
The object of this proposition was to work a division of the 
American colonies. 

18. Governor Franklin convened the members of the As- 
sembly at Burlington on the 15th of May, 1775, for the 
purpose of laying before them this proposition. The Assem- 
bly replied that inasmuch as Congress was now deliberating 
on the situation of affairs, it would be inexpedient to con- 
sider the proposition at that time, and that they would 
abide by the determination of Congress. They afterward 
took up the resolution of the House of Commons, and de- 
clared that it contained no new proposition for a redress of 
grievances. 

19. The New Jersey "committee of correspondence" ap- 
pointed by the convention met at Newark on the 2d of May, 
1775, and directed the chairman to call a second Provincial 
convention, to meet at Trenton on the 23d of May, to con- 
sider the affairs of the Province. This convention met at the 
time and place appointed. Hendrick Fisher was chosen pre- 
sident; Samuel Tucker and Jonathan D. Sergeant, secre- 
taries ; William Patterson and Frederick Frelinghuysen,* 
assistant-secretaries. 

* Frederick Frelinghuysen was born in Somerset county, April 13, 
1753. He was the son and grandson of distinguished clergymen, re- 
ceived a liberal education in the law, and an early training that fully 
prepared him to act a conspicuous part in the struggle for American 
independence. In 1775, at the age of 22 years, he was chosen a repre- 
sentative to the Continental Congress. He resigned his seat in 1777, 

18. What action did the Assembly take on the resolutions of Parlia- 
ment? 

19. What new convention was called? 



PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF NEW JERSEY. 107 

20. The delegates declared that inasmuch as they were the 
representatives of a Christian community, it became them to 
" look to that all-powerful Being by whose providence all 
human events are guided, humbly imploring his divine favor." 
It was therefore ordered that the president should invite the 
ministers of the gospel in the town to open the proceedings 
every morning with prayer. 

21. The convention, under the title "The Provincial 
Congress of New Jersey," assumed the full authority of all 
the branches of the government. This Congress, though 
professing profound veneration for the "family and jDerson 
of George III.," resolved to provide for the defence of the 
Province against invasion by foreign troops. On the 25th 
of May a written message was sent to the Continental Con- 
gress, then in session at Philadelphia, declaring that the 
Provincial Congress of New Jersey was convened with " dis- 
position most heartily to concur, to the utmost of their abili- 
ties, in the common cause of America, but that they did not 
deem it advisable to enter into any measures of consequence 
until some general plan had been adopted by the general 
Congress." 

because lie thought himself too young and inexperienced to assume so 
great responsibilities, and because he believed he could better serve the 
cause in another position. He was appointed captain of an artillery 
corps, was in the battles of Trenton and Monmoutii, and as colonel of 
militia in Sonurset county rendered good service to the State. At the 
close of the war he successively filled important county offices, and in 
1793 was chosen a United States Senator. He died on the 13th of 
April, 1804. The epitaph inscribed on his tomb appropriately says: 
" He was beloved by his country. From his youth he was entrusted 
with her most important concerns. Until his death he never disap- 
(lointed her hopes. At the bar he was eloquent, in the Senate he was 
wise, in the field he was brave." 

20. What occurred at the opening of this convention? 

21. What action did the convention take? 



108 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

22. The ansAvcr to this message, received on the 30th of 
May, was that Congress was not then prepared to give any 
advice upon the state of the Province, but that due attention 
would be given to the requests contained in the message. 

23. The New Jersey Congress adopted a form of associa- 
tion to be signed by the inhabitants of every township in the 
Province. It was in the nature of a pledge, in which the 
signers, after reciting the hostilities and cruelties of the 
British ministry against Massachusetts Bay and other colo- 
nies, declared that, " with hearts abhorring slavery, and 
ardently wishing for reconciliation with our parent state on 
constitutional principles, we solemnly associate and resolve, 
under the sacred ties of virtue, honor and love to our coun- 
try, that we will jiersonally and, so far as our influence ex- 
tends, endeavor to support and carry into execution whatever 
measures may be recommended by the Continental and our 
Provincial Congress for defending our constitution and pre- 
serving the same inviolate." 

24. The organization of the military force was now the 
first subject of importance, and received due attention from 
the Provincial Congress. Instructions were issued for the 
organization of one or more companies of 80 men each in 
every township or corporation, the companies to be under the 
control of the respective committees, and to have power to 
elect their commissioned officers. The inhabitants of Morris, 
Sussex and Somerset counties had already organized com- 
panies of minutemen, pledged to march to any point in the 
country whenever called on. The Provincial Congress ap- 
proved of this conduct, and passed a vote of thanks to the 
inhabitants of these counties. After passing an act to raise 

22. How did Congress reply to this message? 

23. What form of association was adopted ? 

24. How was the military force organized? To whom was the ad- 
ministration of aliiiirs entnistod ? 



QUOTA OF TUOOFS. 109 

a fund of £3000 by taxation, the Congress entrusted the ad- 
ministration of affairs to a committee of three of its members, 
and adjourned on the 3d of June. 

25. The Provincial Congress of New Jersey reassembled 
on the 5th of August, 1775, and immediately provided fur- 
ther means for the collection of taxes and the organization 
of the militia. It directed that 54 companies, each of 
64 minutemen, should be organized, assigning a propor- 
tionate number to each county, and authorizing the county 
committees to select officers for these troops. The minute- 
men adopted the following pledge: " We, the subscribers, do 
voluntarily enlist ourselves as minutemen, and do promise 
to hold ourselves in constant readiness, on the shortest notice, 
to march to any place where our assistance may be required 
for the defence of this and any neighboring colony, as also to 
pay due obedience to the commands of our officers, agreeably 
to the rules and orders of the Continental Congress or the 
Provincial Congress of New Jersey, or, during its recess, to 
the orders of the committee of safety." These troops were 
organized into ten battalions. In Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, 
Monmouth, Somerset, Morris, Sussex, Hunterdon and Bur- 
lington, one each. In Gloucester and Salem, one. Cumber- 
land and Cape May counties had large companies of inde- 
pendent light infantry and rangers already organized. Phil- 
emon Dickinson and William Livingston were appointed 
brigadier-generals to command these troops. 

26. The Quakers, and other persons whose i-eligious j^rinci- 
ples did not allow them to bear arms, were advised by Con- 
gress to contribute the more liberally to the relief of their 
distressed brethren, and to do all other services to their op- 

25. When did the Provincial Congress again meet? What was done 
at tliat ses-sion ? What is said of the " minutemen" ? How were the 
troops organized ? 

20. Wliat were non-combatants advised to do? 
in 



110 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

pressed country that was consistent with their religious pro- 
fessions. 

27. In order to perpetuate its authority, the Provincial 
Congress at this session provided for the election of members 
to that body, annually on the third Thursday of September, 
and declared that Congress should assemble every year on 
the 3d of October until the termination of the struggle with 
Great Britain. It also provided for the election of members 
of the county "committees of observation and correspond- 
ence" annually, on the second Tuesday of March. These 
committees were now clothed with full administrative author- 
ity in their respective counties. Congress appointed Jona- 
than D. Sergeant treasurer, organized a " committee of 
safety" to exercise executive power during the recess, and 
then adjourned to the 20th of September. At the Septem- 
ber session no important measures were adopted. The new 
Congress elected in this month convened in October. During 
its session the military regulations were extended and per- 
fected, and a " committee of safety" was appointed. 

28. A special session of the Provincial Congress was called 
to meet at New Brunswick on the 31st of January, 1776, to 
consider several communications from the Continental Con- 
gress relative to the raising of additional troops and the 
establishment of a court of admiralty. This Congress pro- 
vided for the erection of forts at Perth Amboy to defend the 
colony from the British fleet in the bay of New York, and 
at Swedesboro' to resist an invasion from the Delaware. 
The Continental Congress contributed twelve pieces of small 
cannon and the maintenance for two companies of military 
to equip and man these forts. 

29. An act was passed at this session requiring all persons 

27. What provision did tlie Provincial Congress make to carry on 
the government ? 

28. What further provision for defence was made? 



PREPARING FOR WAR. Ill 

to join the "general association" of the township, and pro- 
viding that those whose religious principles would not allow 
them to bear arms should prefix the following pledge to their 
signature : " I agree to the above association as far as the 
same is consistent with my religious principles." All persons 
refusing to sign this modified form were to be disarmed, and 
wee required to give security for their peaceable conduct. 
The county committees were authorized to arrest all persons 
who refused to comply with this act. A premium was offered 
for the manufacture of nitre and common salt ; and soldiers 
enlisted in the service of the United Colonies were granted 
exemption from execution for small debts. On the 6th of 
February, William Livingston, John de Hart, Richard Smith, 
John Cooper and Jonathan D. Sergeant were appointed dele- 
gates to the Continental Congress. 

30. The Provincial Congress changed the time of the 
annual election to the fourth Monday of May, and extended 
the right to vote to all persons of full age who had signed 
the "general association," had resided in the colony for one 
year, and who were worth £50 in personal estate. 

31. Governor Franklin convened the Legislature on the 
16th of November, 1775. No important business was trans- 
acted, and on the 6th of December the Assembly was pro- 
rogued by the govei'uor to meet on the 3d of January, 1776, 
but it never reassembled, and this was the end of Provincial 
legislation in New Jersey under royal authority. 

32. Notwithstanding these preparations for war, the people 
awaited with anxious hope the king's answer to the last peti- 

29. What were the inliabitants required to do ? What was done to 
encourage enlistment? 

30. What changes were made in the laws of the Province ? 

31. What is said of the end of royal legislation ? 

32. What was done in England? How was this declaration of war 
received in America? 



112 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

tion of Congress for justice and reconciliation. The earnest 
prayer of the oppressed subjects was spui-ned from the 
throne, the inhabitants of the colonies were declared to be 
"rebels," and orders were given for the seizure and confisca- 
tion of their property. A land and naval force of 55,000 
men Avas voted for the king's service against the colonists ; 
and in addition to these, 17,000 troops were hired from Hesse 
Cassel, in Germany, to join the British army in America. 
Thus the sword was drawn on both sides, and the American 
patriots were compelled to fight their way up to national in- 
dependence, or ignominiously surrender to a despotism that 
would speedily reduce them to slavery. They nobly accepted 
the challenge, and with " liberty or death" for their battle- 
cry, resolved to defend their rights as freemen or perish in 
the attempt. 

33. Intelligence of the determination of the British gov- 
ernment to subjugate the colonies was received in America in 
January, 1776. The whole country was roused to greater 
activity by the king's proclamation of war. The army was 
increased, the seaports were fortified, and Washington, who 
had surrounded Boston on the land side by the Continental 
army, prepared to force the British troops from the town. 
His efforts were crowned with success, and on the 17th of 
March the enemy evacuated their forts and sailed away to 
Halifax. Meanwhile the organized companies in every Prov- 
ince had marched to the seaports and made preparations to 
oppose the landing of foreign troojDS. 

34. During the whole time of the bitter controversy that 
preceded the clash of arms the people professed the most un- 
ceasing loyalty to the British Crown ; but now the grand idea 
of an independent nation began to force itself upon the popu- 

33. What effect had the king's prochimation ? 

34. What important movement was inaugurated? In wiiat did it 
result? 



BRITISH FLAGS BURNED. 113 

lar mind, and every heart was filled with the desire for a 
govei-nment that should be beyond the control of the power 
that oppressed the people. The voice of every Provincial 
Assembly was soon heard in favor of independence, and on 
the iPth of May, Congress, then sitting in perpetual session 
in Philadelphia, recommended the formation of State govern- 
ments in all the colonies that should be independent of royal 
authority. Less than two months later, about noon on the 
4th of July, the representatives of the people unanimously 
declared the thirteen colonies free and independent States, to 
be called the United States of America. 

35. Four days after this action had taken place, the com- 
mittee of safety and that of inspection marched in procession 
to the State House in Philadelphia, where the Declaration 
of Independence was read to the battalions of volunteers and 
a vast concourse of citizens. The British flags were then 
taken down and removed from the court-rooms, and were 
burned, amid the shoutings of the people, while the church 
bells were ringing and the peals from the State House bell 
proclaimed liberty throughout the land. The building within 
and around whose walls these scenes were enacted was after- 
ward called " Independence Hall." The members from New 
Jersey in this historic Congress were : Richard Stockton, 
Abraham Clarke, John Hart, Francis Hopkinson and John 
Witherspoon, elected on the 21st of June. 

35. How was the Declaration of Independence published? 
10* H 



CHAPTER XL 

The Declaration of Independence — The New Government. 



^--^^JUJ/, ./ 






igis* 







lis ^■^•« 



ARRLbT tF GOVERNOR FR4\KLIN 



1. It was now 159 years after the time when the first set- 
tlement had been made in New Jersey. The government 
of the Province was 112 years okh The proprietary author- 
ity had ruled from the organization of the Province to 1702 ; 
and the royal government, under which governors were ap- 
pointed by the Crown, had administered the public affairs 74 
years. 

2. Though the Provincial Congress of New Jersey had to 
a great extent assumed the control of public affairs in the 
Province, it had not renounced the royal authority. The 

Chapter XI. — 1. How old was the Province of New Jersey at the 
beginning of th^ Revohitionary War? 

2. Wliat important change was made in the government? What is 
said of the adoption of the new constitntion ? 
114 



THE STATE DECLARED INDEPENDENT. 115 

new Congress, elected on the fourth Monday in May, 1776, 
convened at Burlington on the 10th of June. Petitions were 
sent in from all parts of the Province, urging the representa- 
tives to organize a new government, in accordance with the 
recommendations of the Continental Congress made on the 
15th of May. On the 24th of June a committee was ap- 
pointed to draft a constitution. This committee, after two 
days' deliberations, reported the form of a constitution, which 
was briefly considered, and was adopted on the second day 
of July. New Jersey was, however, not yet disposed to 
abandon all hopes of reconciliation with the Crown, and 
therefore provided in the last article of this constitution that 
the instrument should become void whenever the king should 
grant a full redress of grievances, and agree to administer 
the government of New Jersey in accordance with the consti- 
tution of England and the rights of British subjects. But, 
on the 18th of July, 1778, the Provincial Congress assumed 
the title of "The Convention of the State of New Jersey," 
declared the State to be independent of royal authority, and 
directed that all ofl[icial papers, acts of Assembly and other 
public documents should be made in the name and by the 
authority of the State. 

3. Though New Jersey left open the way for a return to 
the protection of the Crown, it cannot be rightly inferred 
that the people or the representatives were timid, or hesitated 
to engage in the contest before them. The Province had 
felt the hand of the oppressor in a smaller degree than any 
of its neighbors. It had no ships and no foreign commerce, 
and it therefore would have suffered comparatively little 
from the proposed taxation which had been so stoutly resisted 
throughout all the colonies. Nevertheless, the people kept 
pace with the foremost in the adoption of measures to resist 

3. What is said of the spirit of the people? Of the last clause of the 
constitution ? 



116 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the encroachments of the British ministry. The delegates to 
Congress chosen on the 21st of June, just before the appoint- 
ment of the committee to draft the new constitution, were in- 
structed to unite with the other colonies in a declaration of 
independence from Great Britain. Moreover, the last clause 
of the constitution, and the only part in it which seemed to 
indicate fear, had been adopted when but few members of the 
Provincial Congress were present ; and it was declared that 
had the house given a full vote that clause would have been 
rejected. 

4. After the adoption of the constitution, the State conven- 
tion, which was in fact the State Legislature, proceeded to 
enact laws to provide for the thorough organization of the 
government in every county. The time for the State election 
was fixed for the second Tuesday in August. Every voter or 
public officer was required to take an oath or affirmation that 
he did not hold himself bound to bear allegiance to George 
III. of Great Britain, and would not by any means, directly 
or indirectly, oppose the measures adopted by the State or 
Continental Congress ; but that he would bear true allegiance 
to the government established under the authority of the 
people. 

5. In the south-eastern part of New York and in the 
northern part of New Jersey, where the king's government 
had the most influence, a very considerable portion of the 
population adhered to the Crown. The people divided them- 
selves into two parties. Those who espoused the American 
cause were called " Whigs," and those who adhered to the 
British government were named "Tories." The Tories in 
the upper part of the State were quite numerous, wealthy 
and active. They were the friends and relatives of influen- 

4. Wiiat did the State Convention do? 

5. How were tlie people divided on tiie question of independence? 



THE EFFECTS OF WAR. 117 

tial families in England, and exercised a very dangerous in- 
fluence on the new government. 

6. Throughout the war for independence, New Jersey was 
a frontier State, and was exposed to all the miseries of a 
border warfare. Never wholly without an army within 
its boundaries, several times completely overrun by the 
enomy, and often made the camping-ground for both the 
British and the Continental armies, the losses to its people 
were great and the privations and distress severe. 

7. During the period of resistance to British taxation there 
was great unanimity throughout the Province. All persons 
united in the defence of personal liberty and opposition to the 
assumptions of the ministry. But after that period had been 
passed, and the question of independence was submitted an 1 
war threatened, dissensions and divisions sprang up in almost 
every county. The royal officers, their friends and relatives 
who lived on royal patronage, opposed the overthrow of the 
royal authority. The Quakers, who were opposed to war, 
were also strongly attached to the parent state and to their 
churches and family connexions in England. They shrank 
from the idea of a conflict of arms, and labored to maintain 
their rights by peaceful persuasion. The great body of 
the people, however, led by bold, daring, liberty-loving 
spirits, were not only ready for the Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, but were prepared to pledge their lives, their 
property and their sacred honor in defence of the new 
government. 

8. At the head of the opposition was Governor Franklin. 
But the torrent of public sentiment that swept around him 

6. Wliat was the position of New Jersey ? 

7. What effect had the Declaration of Independence and the threat 
of war on the people ? 

8. Who led the opposition to the new government? What is said 
of the administration of royal authority in the State? 



118 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

and over the Province was so strong that he was unable to 
resist or to turn its course. He was therefore compelled to 
be an idle spectator whilst his powers were completely swept 
away. Even before the establishment of the new govern- 
ment the executive authority had passed, by the voice of the 
people, into the hands of the delegates in the convention, and 
all power derived from royal authority was suspended. And 
finally, when he issued a proclamation on the 30th of May, 
1776, summoning the members of the Legislature to meet, 
the Provincial Congress, which was then in session, passed a 
resolution declaring that the proclamation of William Frank- 
lin, late governor, ought not to be obeyed. 

9. Soon after this. Congress declared him to be an enemy 
to the liberties of the country, ordered his salary to be dis- 
continued, and that the treasurer of the Province should 
account only to the Provincial Congress or to the future 
Legislature. An order was issued to Colonel Nathaniel 
Heard, who commanded the Middlesex county militia, 
directing him to arrest "Mr. Franklin," and to take his 
parole in writing that he would not attempt to exercise 
any special authority in the Province ; and that if he 
should refuse to sign the parole, to put him under strong 
guard and keep him in close custody until further orders. 

10. He refused to sign the parole prescribed by the Pro- 
vincial Congress. Colonel Heard therefore surrounded his 
house with a guard of 60 men, and despatched a messenger 
to the Congress asking for further instructions. He was 
commanded to bring the late governor to Burlington. The 
Provincial Congress sent a report of the arrest of Governor 
Franklin to the Continental Congress in Philadeljjhia, and 
asked in what manner he should be dealt with, recommend- 

9. How was Governor Franklin treated? 
10. Wliat is said of the arrest of Governor Franklin ? 



GOVERNOR FRANKLIN. 119 

ing at the same time that he shoukl be removed to some 
other Province. The Continental Congress directed that the 
governor be examined, and if, in the opinion of the Provin- 
cial authorities, it is necessary that he should be confined, 
then the Continental Congress will direct in what manner 
and place he shall be imprisoned. 

1 1. Franklin was arraigned before the Provincial Congress 
on the 21st of June ; but he refused to answer any questions 
put to him, and denied the authority of that body over him, 
and denounced it for having usurped the king's authority in 
the Province. He was thereupon ordered into close confine- 
ment, under a guard commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel 
Bowes Read. On the 25th of June an order was received 
from the Continental Congress, directing that Franklin 
should be sent under guard to Governor Trumbull of Con- 
necticut, who was requested to take his parole. Immedi- 
ately after his release, Franklin * sailed for England. 

12. The public policy of the new government toAvard that 
part of the population which remained loyal to England 
was at first very lenient. In January, 1776, a resolution 

* William Franklin, son of Benjamin Franklin, was born in Phila- 
delphia in 17.31. He was a captain in the French war, accompanied 
his father to England, and was appointed governor of New Jersev in 
1763. He remained loyal to the British government, and was a con- 
spicuons enemy to American independence. There was no intercourse 
between him and his father during the whole of the Revolutionary 
struggle. The governor proposed a reconciliation with his father in a 
letter dated July 22, 1784. His father replied: "Nothing has ever 
hurt me so much and affected me with such keen sensations as to find 
myself deserted in my old age by my only son ; and not only deserted, 
but to find him taking up arms against me in a cause wherein my good 
fame, fortune and life were all at a stake." Governor Franklin died in 
England, November 17, 1813. 

11. How was he finally disposed of? 

12. What is said of the treatment of Tories? 



120 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

was passed by the Provincial Congress recommending the 
several township and county committees and other friends of 
American liberty to explain to the honest and misguided 
citizens the true nature of the controversy — how the people 
had struggled to adjust their differences with Great Britain, 
how their petitions had been rejected, and how a redress of 
grievances had been refused ; and that only when resistance 
to a determination on the part of Great Britain to force these 
obnoxious laws upon the people became necessary did the 
leaders of the independence party resolve upon establishing 
an independent government. The committeemen Avere in- 
structed, however, to proceed with vigor against any active 
partisans whose conduct injured the jieace of the community. 
These were disarmed, and either bound by sufficient sureties 
to keep the peace, or, in default of this, were taken into 
custody. 

13. On Long Island and in the north-eastern parts of 
New Jersey the enemies of independence were sufficiently 
strong to organize and boldly declare their determination 
to aid the British troops in their efforts to subjugate 
the people. When General Howe entered the Province 
of New York and Lord Cornwallis came to New Jersey at 
the heads of their respective armies, they were received with 
open arms by the Tories. These officers issued proclama- 
tions offering protection to all w'ho would take the oath of 
allegiance to Great Britain within sixty days, and assuring 
the people that the obnoxious laws wdiich had occasioned the 
war would be revised. 

14. These proclamations and the presence of a large body 
of British troops almost extinguished the American party in 
this part of the State. A few companies of militia, com- 
manded by General Wilson, and afterward by General Dick- 

13. What is said of the conduct of the Tories? 

14. What efibct liad the presence of the enemy on the people? 



TORY ASSOCIATIONS. 121 

inson, were almost the only force that opposed the enemy. 
The majority of the inhabitants were either in full sympathy 
with the enemy, or had too little interest in the cause of 
American independence to risk either their lives or their 
property in its support. When called upon by the earnest 
patriots to take up arms against the invaders, many of them 
replied that " General Howe promises peace, liberty and 
safety ; more than this we could not desire." 

15. Associations were formed in the counties adjoining 
New York and within the influence of the British officers, 
whose members pledged themselves not to pay any taxes 
levied by order of the Provincial Congress, nor to purchase 
any forfeited goods that should be sold under the authority 
of the new government. The manifestation of this spirit of 
disloyalty to the State and the presence of the British army 
made it necessary to adopt more stringent measures to main- 
tain the authority of the government. The county and 
town committees were instructed to enforce the resolves of 
the Provincial Congress, and to arrest all who were found in 
active sympathy with the enemy. These instructions were 
promptly obeyed by the militia in the several counties, and 
many of the principal Tories were brought before the com- 
mittee of safety. Many of the prisoners confessed their 
faults and asked for pardon. Most of these were dismissed 
unpunished or .upon the payment of a small fine. This 
course, however, was not severe enough to suppress the 
power of the Tories. Armed insurrections broke out in 
Monmouth county, which were quelled by the militia under 
authority from the Provincial Congress. 

16. When the State government was organized under the 
new constitution, the Legislature enacted laws for the arrest 

15. What organizations were formed near New Yorlv ? What in- 
structions were sent to the committees? How were tiicse enforced? 

16. What laws were passed by llic Lcgishitare ? 
11 



122 HISTORY OF JSTEW JERSEY. 

and punishment of all persons who opposed its author- 
ity, and declared that any citizen who should, by speech, 
writing or open deed, maintain the authority of the king and 
Parliament of Great Britain should be subjected for the 
first offence to a fine not exceeding £800 and imprisonment 
not to exceed one year. For the second, to the pillory and 
the like imprisonment. That reviling or speaking con- 
temptuously of the government of the State, of the Congress 
of the United States of America, or of the measures adopted 
by the Congress or by the Legislature of the State, or malici- 
ously doing anything whatever Avhich would encourage dis- 
affection or tend to raise tumults and disorders, or to alienate 
the affections of the people from the government, or to ter- 
rify or discourage the subjects of the State, should be pun- 
ished in the same manner. 

17. This act was at the time considered severe, but it 
was soon followed by still more stringent measures. On the 
5th of June, 1777, an act was passed providing for the con- 
fiscation of the property of all citizens who joined the enemies 
of the State. In the following year the act was so amended 
as to make it the duty of the county commissioners to seize 
the property of all persons who had gone within the lines of 
the British army, or who had in any way given aid or com- 
fort to the enemy ; and the tenants on all lands owned by the 
enemies of the State were required to pay the rents to the 
county commissioners. 

18. During the greater part of the war the Tory refugees 
from New Jersey maintained an organization on Staten 
Island under the protection of the British army, and when- 
ever opportunity offered, they made raids into the northern 
counties of the State. Their hostility was far more ma- 
lignant than that of the British soldiers. They frequently 

17. "Wliat other measures were adopted? 

18. Wliat is said of the Tory organization on Staten Island ? 



WHIGS AND TORIES. 123 

inflicted the most savage cruelties upon their former neighbors. 
They were intimately acquainted with the country, and could 
suddenly enter an unprotected community, and after treating 
the inhabitants in the most barbarous manner, suddenly re- 
treat to their place of safety on the New York islands. 

19. The people of the northern counties organized inde- 
pendent companies to meet these Tory invaders, and the 
conflicts which occurred between these parties were among 
the fiercest ever witnessed on this continent. Many a tale 
of heroic daring and of fearless devotion to the cause of lib- 
erty is told of these banded patriots, who loved their homes 
and liberty more than their lives. The cedar swamps and 
the pine forests on the north-eastern borders of this State wit- 
nessed many scenes of sacrifice, of suffering and of death in 
the cause of American independence that are unsurpassed in 
the annals of our country. 

19. What is said of the conflicts with these marauders? 



CHAPTER XII. 

The Revolutionary War — Campaign of 177G — The State 
Overrun by the Enemy. 




WASHINGTON CROSSING THE DELAWARE. 



1. The British army, commanded by General Howe, 
arrived in New York harbor early in the month of July, 
1776, and encamped on Staten Island. Admiral Lord Howe 
soon arrived from England Avith a fleet and a large body of 
troops. On the 22d of August the enemy entei'cd Long 
Island, which was held by the American forces under Major- 
General Greene. Several days were spent in manoeuvring 
and in skirmishing. On the 27th and 28th a severe battle 
was fought, in which General Sullivan commanded the 



Chapter XII. — 1. When did the British army arrive in New York? 
Wiiat battle was fought ? 
124 



THE BRITISH OCCUPY NEW YORK. 125 

American troops. His army was overwhelmed by the supe- 
rior numbers of the enemy, and suffered great loss. In the 
midst of a heavy rain, on the dark and stormy night of the 
28th, the remnant of the Continental army withdrew to 
Manhattan Island and joined the main army under General 
Washington. 

'?. The British army soon entered New York, forcing 
General Washington to withdraw to the Highlands on the 
east bank of the Hudson. Nearly three months were spent 
here by the British generals in their endeavors to draw 
General Washington into battle upon such disadvantageous 
ground as would enable them to wholly crush the American 
army. This, however, Washington Avisely avoided, and 
so baffled the royal generals that they finally abandoned 
their efforts and retired to Manhattan Island. The Ameri- 
cans still held Fort Washington on that island, and opposite, 
on the New Jersey bank of the Hudson, was Fort Lee. Both 
of these posts were under the command of General Greene. 

3. Washington discovered that it was the intention of the 
enemy to cross the Hudson to invade the State of New Jersey. 
He cautioned General Greene to keep a strict watch upon the 
movements of Howe, and to defeat any attempts on his part 
to invest Fort Lee and make the garrison prisoners. Wash- 
ington also wrote to Governor Livingston, apprising him of 
the contemplated movements of the enemy, and asked him to 
hold the militia force of New Jersey in readiness to join the 
Continental army, and to make all possible resistance to the 
advance of the enemy. 

4. On the 13th of November, General Washington crossed 
the Hudson w^ith the best part of his army, leaving the East- 
ern regiments under the command of General Lee, with orders 

2. What movements were made by the armies ? 

3. What instructions did Wasliington issue? 

4. When did Washington's army enter New Jersey? 
11 « 



126 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

to follow the comniandcr-in-chief sliould General Howe effect 
a crossing. Orders were given to General Greene to hold Fort 
Washington and Fort Lee as long as it should seena to him 
advisable. Fort Washington was surrounded by General 
Howe's army, and after a severe engagement, on the 16th of 
November, the whole garrison was surrendered prisoners of 
war. 

5. The captui'e of this fort induced the evacuation of Fort 
Lee, and the removal of all the military stores to the interior 
of New Jersey was immediately commenced. On the 19th 
of November, before all the stores could be removed from 
Fort Lee, a detachment of the enemy, commanded by Lord 
Cornwallis and numbering about 6000 men, crossed the Hud- 
son river below Dobbs' Ferry, and by a rapid march, at- 
tempted to enclose the garrison of Fort Lee between the 
Hudson and the Hackensack rivers. General Greene, how- 
ever, had closely watched the movements of the enemy, and 
rapidly withdrew his forces across the Hackensack, but 
the heavy cannon and many of the stores at the fort were 
lost. 

6. The whole of that portion of the army under Washing- 
ton which had crossed the Hudson was now posted along the 
western bank of the Hackensack rivei'. This little band of 
patriots numbered only 3000 effective men, while in their 
front and on the banks of the Hudson the enemy numbered 
nearly 12,000. With such heavy odds against him, Wash- 
ington saw the necessity of withdrawing his army from be- 
tween the Hackensack and the Passaic to a less dangerous 
position. There was no hope for immediate reinforcements, 
and the militiamen of New Jersey could do little more than 
keep their Tory neighbors in subjection. 

7. Washington made every possible exertion to concen- 

5. Where and when did tlie British enter the State ? 

6. "What was the strengtli and position of Wasliingfon's army? 



MOVEMENTS OF THE AMERICANS. 127 

trate the forces of the Continental army in front of the 
enemy. General Schuyler was ordered to hasten from Lake 
Champlain with the Pennsylvania and New Jersey troops. 
General Lee was ordered to cross the Hudson immediately, 
and to hold himself in readiness to join the commander-in- 
chief Unfortunately, however, nearly all of General Schuy- 
ler's army, and a great part of the troops in General Lee's 
division, had enlisted in the fall of 1775 for one year, and 
their term of service, therefore, had nearly expired. The 
army was daily melting away, and a total dissolution of the 
Continental regiments stared the commanding general in the 
face. General Mercer, who commanded the flying camp at 
Bergen, was called upon to join Washington's army, but the 
time of service of his men expired on the 1st of December, 
and his troops were therefore unavailable. 

8. Notwithstanding all these disadvantages, Washington 
still preserved a show of resistance, with a view of covering 
the few stores which still remained to be removed to the in- 
terior. With the brigades commanded by Beal, Heard and 
Erwin, Washington crossed the bridge at Acquackanonck 
and took post at Newark, on the south bank of the Passaic. 
The British army closely followed the retreat of the Ameri- 
cans, and encamped on the opposite bank of the Passaic. 
Having placed the principal rivers between himself and the 
enemy, Washington put forth renewed efforts to increase the 
strength of his army. He sent General Mifflin, who was 
highly esteemed by the Pennsylvanians, into that State, with 
orders to organize the militia and bring a body of troops to 
his relief; and Colonel Joseph Reed, who was held in high 
favor in New Jersey, was sent to Governor Livingston to 
press upon him the absolute and immediate necessity of call- 

7. What was the condition of the American army ? 

8. What policy did Washington adopt? What movements did lie 
make? What efforts were made to increase his strengtli ? 



128 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

ing out tlie -whole force of the State. Under these discour- 
aging circumstances, when almost the last ray of hope had 
departed, the Tories of New Jersey began to organize to 
resist the American authority, so that it became necessary to 
detach bodies of troops from the little army of patriots to 
suppress local insurrections. 

9. The British now began to cross the Passaic, and on 
the 28th of November, Lord Cornwall is entered Newark. 
General Washington slowly withdrew his army southward, 
retreating to New Brunswirk. The terrible day of the 1st 
of December now arrived, and the Maryland and New Jersey 
troops, entitled to their discharge, forsook their comrades- 
in-arms in the face of the advancing enemy. 

10. From New Brunswick the commander-in-chief again 
wrote to Governor Livingston, informing him that the enemy 
was occupying New Jersey and would cross the State to Phil- 
adelphia, unless some strong measures were taken to resist 
his advance ; but it was not within the power of the governor 
to furnish the aid required. The enemy had already spread 
over the northern and middle counties, and had overaAved the 
people so that the organization of companies of militia was 
exceedingly difficult. A small body of the militia from 
Morris and Sussex counties joined Washington's army. The 
lower portion of the State yet unoccupied by the enemy was 
inhabited principally by Quakers, who were non-combatants. 
The State was therefore prostrate beneath the feet of the 
advancing foe. 

11. AVashington skillfully mana?uvred his little ainny so 
as to conceal its weakness and to retard the advance of C'Orn- 
wallis. He nevertheless cautiously retired before the van- 

9. What crisis arrived? 

10. Wluit did Wasliington write to Governor Livingston? AVhat 
response was made to Wasliington's request? 

11. How was tlie American army manoeuvred? 



RETREAT THROUGH NEW JERSEY. 129 

guard of the enemy. He withdrew from New Brunswick to 
Princeton ; and leaving Lord Sterling, with two brigades of 
Virginia and Delaware troops, numbering about 1200 men, 
to watch the enemy, he continued his retreat to Trenton. 
He had sent orders to have the boats on the Delaware col- 
lected and held in readiness to ferry his own army across to 
Pennsylvania, and also to prevent the boats from falling 
into the hands of the enemy. The military stores and bag- 
gage were placed on the west bank of the river. 

12. The retreat through New Jersey was one of the most 
embarrassing and discouraging events of the war. It com- 
menced after the heavy loss on Long Island and the capture 
of Fort Washington. The troops had lost their baggage 
and their stores and a large quantity of arms and ammuni- 
tion. They were without tents, blankets, shoes, and utensils 
to cook their scanty supply of provisions. Companies and 
regiments were almost daily disbanding and leaving the ser- 
vice. The little army was surrounded by Tories, and was 
confronted by the overwhelming numbers of a victorious 
enemy. Nothing but that love of liberty which rises above 
circumstances, and the personal presence of the commander- 
in-chief, who was able to inspire confidence amid these accu- 
mulating misfortunes and disasters, held together this band 
of patriots as they slowly retired before the advancing lines 
of an exultant foe. 

13. Following immediately upon the track of these dis- 
solving regiments, poorly clad, half starved, heartsick with 
disappointments and misfortunes, came a well-appointed 
army with dazzling equipments and imposing pomp, con- 
scious of strength and confident of victory. The effect upon 

12. What is said of the retreat across the State? Of the condition 
of the army ? 

13. What is said of the enemy's condition ? What effect had this 
circumstance on the people? 

I 



130 HISTORY OF NFW JERSEY. 

the inhabitants of the country through which these two 
armies marched may be readily imagined ; it is not sur- 
prising that many gave up the hope of achieving independ- 
ence and made haste to submit themselves to the favor of 
the royal authorities. The patriots were called " a band of 
ragamufhns ;" the enemy was styled "the royal army of 
Great Britain." 

14. The British commissioners who accompanied the 
army, taking advantage of these circumstances, issued a 
proclamation commanding all persons in arms against his 
majesty's government to disband and return to their homes, 
and offered a full pardon to all who, within sixty days, 
would appear before an officer of the Crown and claim the 
benefits of this proclamation. Under this invitation many, 
who had before made great protestations of love for the 
American cause, humbly sneaked into the British camp and 
craved the mercy of their conquerors. 

15. Washington, however, was not discouraged, and was 
still able to inspire the band of patriots who followed his 
standard with confidence in their cause. Finding that Corn- 
wall is paused at New Brunswick, he sent forward a detach- 
ment of 1200 men to Princeton, so as to give the appearance 
of an advance against the enemy, in the hope that he might 
thus reanimate the people of New Jersey. General Mifflin 
had been successful in Pennsylvania, and had organized a 
large body of militia in that State; 1500 of these, well 
armed and equipped, marched to Trenton ; and a battalion 
of Germans, authorized by the Continental Congress and 
commanded by officers who had served in the European 
armies, also marched to Washington's camp on the Dela- 

14. How did the enemy attempt to demoralize the people ? 

15. What was Washington able to do ? What reinforcements did he 
receive? What movements were made? When did the American 
army cross the Delaware ? 



GENERAL LEE TAKEN PRISONER. 131 

ware. The British general, perceiving this forward move- 
ment, broke camp at New Brunswick, and attempted by a 
circuitous march to fall in the rear of the detachment sent to 
Princeton. The commander-in-chief, however, was on the 
alert, and promptly withdrew his troops to Trenton, and on 
the 8th of December, at the approach of the British army, 
crossed the Delaware into Pennsylvania. 

16. Washington posted his army along the western bank 
of the river to guard the fords, and carefully watched the 
movements of the enemy. The British arrived at the river 
close upon the rearguard of the American army. Cornwallis 
encamped with the main body of his troops at Trenton, and 
threw out detachments above and below that place. He 
reconnoitred the banks of the river for a considerable dis- 
tance, and made several attempts to seize a number of boats 
guarded by Lord Sterling at Coryell's Ferry, but, failing to 
get possession of these, he made no further efforts to cross the 
river. 

17. After having made every possible disposition to guard 
the passes of the river, Washington again apj^ealed to the 
neighboring States to send forward their militia Avithout 
delay. General Lee was now tardily marching to join the 
commander-in-chief. Whilst passing through Morris county, 
near Baskingridge, on the 11th of December, he went to a 
private house, about three miles from his army, to remain 
during the night. He posted only a small guard at the 
door. A body of British cavalry, who had been watching 
his movements, was informed of this circumstance, and early 
on the morning of the 12th surrounded the house, seized the 
general and carried him a prisoner to the British headquar- 
ters. General Lee had been held in high esteem by the 

16. How were the armies posted ? 

17. What misfortune befell one of the American generals? What 
reinforcements were received on the Delaware? 



132 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

American people, and was regarded as second only to the 
commander-in-chief. His capture, thei-efore, was consid- 
ered as a great public calamity. General Sullivan as- 
sumed the command of Lee's division, and promptly march- 
ing by way of the Phillipsburg road, joined Washington's 
camp on the 20th of December. On the same day General 
Gates arrived with a body of Northern troops. With these 
reinforcements the army on the Delaware numbered 7000 
effective men. 

18. The British army had gone into winter quarters at 
Trenton, Borden town, Whitehorse and Mount Holly, on the 
Delaware, and extended its lines across the country to the 
Hackensack. General Maxwell * was ordered by General 
Washington to form an encampment at Morristown, where 
he collected about 800 Jersey militia and three regiments 
of Northern troops from Peekskill. Maxwell was instructed 
to watch the enemy, to harass his marches, to give intelli- 
gence of his movements to the commanding general, and to 
do Avhatever in his judgment would tend to keep up the 
spirits of the militia and to keep the inhabitants from going 
within the British lines. 

* William Maxwell was born in 1733, at Greenwich, Sussex county, 
New Jersey. He served in the French war, in 1755, as an officer of 
Provincial troops, was at Braddock's defeat, and fouglit under General 
Wolfe at the taking of Quebec. He was afterward attached to the com- 
missary department as colonel. As soon as he heard of the resistance 
of the colonies lie resigned his commission, marched on foot to Trenton, 
and tendered his services to tlie Provincial Congress, then in session. 
He was appointed colonel, raised a battalion and set out for Quebec, 
but he returned on hearing of the defeat of Montgomery. He was 
appointed general, served with distinction in the battles of German- 
town, Monmouth, Brandy wine, Springfield, Wyoming, etc., and re- 
signed in 1782. He died November 4, 1796, aged 63 years. 

18. What is said of the position of the enemy ? What was General 
Maxwell ordered to do? 



WASHINGTON CROSSING THE DELAWARE. 133 

19. Though Washington had crossed the Delaware on his 
retreat on the 8th of December at the head of the remnant 
of an army depressed and almost without hope, he was now, 
at the end of seventeen days, strong enough to recross the 
river and give battle to the enemy. He had discovered that 
the British commander, presuming on the weakness of the 
Ar-.ericans, and entertaining no fears of an aggressive move- 
ment, allowed his troops to occupy their camps without keep- 
ing a close watch on the banks of the Delaware. Washing- 
ton matured a plan to surprise the enemy, in the hope that 
he might strike an effective blow and thus revive the failing 
courage of the American people. 

20. Marching orders were sent along the line, and the 
troops were supplied with three days' rations and forty 
rounds of ammunition. Washington had determined to cross 
the river at Mackonkey's Ferry, nine miles above Trenton, 
with 4000 troops under his immediate command, assisted by 
Generals Sullivan and Greene. General Erwin was directed 
to cross at the Trenton fei-ry, and to seize the bridge below 
the town to prevent the escape of the enemy by that road. 
General Cadwalader was to cross at Dunks' Ferry and 
capture the post at Mount Holly, and General Putnam was 
directed to unite the forces engaged in fortifying Philadelphia 
with those at Bristol, and to cross the river at that point. 

21. On the night of the 25th of December, AVashington 
crossed at Mackonkey's Ferry, at the head of 2400 veterans. 
The current was swift and thick with floating ice. The wind 
blew violently in the faces of the men. Snow began to fall 
at 11 o'clock, and soon a north-west storm of wind, sleet and 
hail set in and beat pitilessly upon the soldiers, who success- 

19. What is said of tlie armies on the Delaware? What did Wasli- 
ington resolve to do? 

20. What orders were issued ? 

21. Describe the crossing of the Delaware? 
12 



134 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

fully ferried the stream, and, regardless of icy roads and 
pelting elements, pressed forward toward the enemy's camp. 
The other divisions of the army were prevented by the ice 
and storm from crossing. 

22. At daylight, General Sullivan, who commanded the 
right Aving of the army, reported to the general-in-chief that 
his men's powder and arms were wet. " Then tell your gen- 
eral to use the bayonet, for the town must be taken," said 
Washington to the messenger who brought the report. 

23. The troops pushed bravely on, and the town of Trenton 
was taken. Colonel Ralle, the Hessian commander, had spent 
the night in drinking and card-playing, and was wholly un- 
conscious of danger until the roll of the drum and the crack 
of the rifle fell upon his dull eai's. The Hessians rushed to 
arms, but were speedily overcome by the impetuous charge 
of the Americans. Seventeen of the enemy Avere killed, 
seventy-eight wounded and nine hundred and forty-six were 
taken prisoners. Washington captured 1200 small arms and 
six brass cannon. The battle lasted only thirty-five minutes, 
and the Americans returned to their camjDS without the loss 
of a man. 

24. The news of this victory filled all patriot hearts with joy. 
The Tories, who, before the battle, rejoiced at the low condi- 
tion of the American army, were now silenced and abashed ; 
but the friends of liberty, recently so despondent, rose in the 
pride and strength of their principles, and were bold to talk 
and work for the cause of independence. Troops again 
flocked to the victorious standard of Washington ; the vet- 
eran soldiers, whose term of service expired the first of the 
year 1777, re-enlisted, and thus the army and the people 
were inspired with new vigor and courage. 

22. What did General Sullivan report? 

23. Describe the battle of Trenton ? 

2^. Wliat was the effect of this victory? 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Campaign of 1111 — Battle of Princeton — Enemy Driven from 
the State — Noble Conduct of the State Militia. 




WASHINGTON'S HEADQUARTERS, MORBISTOWN. 

1. 'After the battle at Trenton the British forces with- 
drew from the Delaware and established themselves at 
Princeton and New Brunswick. The strength of Washing- 
ton's army was so rapidly increased that the commanding 
general resolved to enter upon a winter campaign, in the 
hope that he might drive the enemy from New Jersey and 
encourage the patriots there to re-enlist in the cause of inde- 
pendence. 

2. He ordered General Heath, at Peekskill, on the Hud- 
son river, to move into the northern part of New Jersey and 
to threaten the British encampments. General Maxwell was 



Chapter XIII. — 1. Wliat campaign was undertaken ? 
2. What orders were issued to Heath and Maxwell? 



135 



136 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

directed to collect the New Jersey militia and to attack the 
outposts of the enemy. 

3. Washington, at the head of the main army, crossed the 
Delaware at Trenton on the 30th of December. Generals 
Mifflin and Cadwalader marched up from Bordentown and 
Crosswicks with nearly 4000 militia, and joined Washing- 
ton on the 1st of January. Lord Cornwallis had watched 
these movements from Princeton, and on the 2d of January 
marched down at the head of a large force toward Trenton. 

4. On his approach, General Washington withdrew his 
force across the Assunpink creek, and formed his line of 
battle on its southern bank. The British attempted to cross 
the stream, but the guards at the fords could not be over- 
come. The enemy therefore halted and kindled their fires 
for the night on the northern bank of the Assunpink. The 
American troops lighted their fires on the opposite bank, and 
during the evening a brisk cannonade was kept up from both 
sides. 

5. Washington saw that his army was now in a danger- 
ous position. He could not hope, with his 5000 troops, 
to gain a victory over the large and well-disciplined army 
that lay in his front. To suffer a defeat would sacrifice 
the great advantages that had been secured by the vic- 
tory at Trenton the week before. The Delaware Avas now 
floating thick with ice, so that it would have been impossible 
to withdraw his forces to Pennsylvania. He therefore re- 
solved not to risk a battle when the chances of victory were 
so largely in favor of the enemy. A council of war was 
called, and a plan to fall upon the enemy's flank and rear, 
submitted by the commander-in-chief, was unanimously 
approved. 

3. What movements were made ? 

4. How did the armies encamp ? 

5. What was the position of Wasliington's array? 



BATTLE OF PRINCETON. 137 

6. As soon as it was dark the baggage was removed to 
Burlington. About one o'clock in the morning of the od of 
January the fires "were renewed so as to burn brightly, the 
guards along the stream were strengthened, and the army 
then quietly marched away on the Quaker road toward 
Princeton. 

7. Washington had resolved to fall upon the rearguard of 
the British array, to overwhelm it, to capture Princeton, and 
then, by a rapid march, reach New Brunswick in time to 
seize the large magazines and storehouses of the enemy at 
that point. Three British regiments had encamped on the 
Quaker road on the night of the 2d. These were encoun- 
tered at sunrise by General Mercer's brigade, which formed 
the vanguard of Washington's army. A sharp battle en- 
sued, in which General Mercer was mortally wounded and 
his troops were routed, but the fortune of the day was imme- 
diately changed by the appearance of General Washington 
at the head of a body of regulars. These attacked the enemy 
with great spirit, and soon forced the British lines to give 
way. The regiments were separated and driven from the 
field, having suffered great loss in officers and men. Wash 
ington then pushed forward to Princeton. The British regi- 
ment which had been left to guard this place Avas drawn 
up in the college grounds. The Americans attacked these 
troops and compelled them to surrender. 

8. In the actions of this day about 100 British were killed 
and nearly 300 were taken prisoners. The loss of the Ame- 
ricans was somewhat less, but among their number was in- 
cluded General Mercer of Virginia, an officer who had been 
highly esteemed by the commanding general, and had been 

6. Wliat movement was made? 

7. What did Washington expect to do? What battle was fouglit? 
Describe this battle. What occurred at Princeton ? 

8. What were the casualties of the day? 

12 - 



138 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

frequently entrusted with the discharge of the most important 
duties. 

9. At daylight on the od, Lord Cornwallis discovered that 
the American army had withdrawn from his front, and he 
immediately comprehended Washington's plan and his move- 
ments. He faced about his troops and marched with the 
utmost speed toward New Brunswick, in order to save the 
magazines and valuable military stores at that point. His 
vanguard came up close to the rear of the American army 
before it had left Princeton. Thus General Washington 
was again placed in a very perilous situation. His army was 
exhausted with the fatigue of night-marches and battles, and 
his troops had been without sleep. They were without blan- 
kets in the midst of winter, many of them barefoot and 
thinly clad. They were in the vicinity of an enemy who 
greatly outnumbered them, and were at least eighteen miles 
from any point of safety. The commanding general there- 
fore wisely abandoned the idea of moving on New Bruns- 
wick, and retired across Millstone creek, destroying the 
bridges between Princeton and New Brunswick. He with- 
drew on the road leading up the country to Pluckemin, and 
there permitted his troops to halt for rest and refreshments. 
Cornwallis was too anxious for the safety of New Brunswick to 
pay any attention to troops marching in another direction. 
He therefore passed by Washington's fatigued army and 
hurried forward to save his stores. 

10. The experience of this short, brilliant and successful 
movement taught Washington that his undisciplined militia 
and his poorly-clad army were not prepared to endure the 
exposure of a winter campaign. He therefore withdrew his 
army to Morristown, and there went into winter quarters. 

9. What is said of Cornwallis? What was now the condition of 
Wasliington's army ? 

10. What were the effects of these battles ? 



POWER GIVEN TO WASHINGTON. 139 

The battles of Trenton and Princeton were regarded by the 
people as great victories. To them this campaign Avas evi- 
dence that the American troops were far superior to the 
royal army, that the Continental generals were more skillful 
than the leaders of the enemy, and that ultimate success 
must attend the eftbrts of the patriots. 

11. Congress gave Washington authority to raise sixteen 
additional regiments of regulars, and conferred upon him for 
six months almost unlimited powers to conduct the war. 
The public spirit was now so strong in favor of the Conti- 
nental army that these regiments were rapidly filled up by 
recruits from the States. 

12. The favorable change in public aftairs was nowhere 
more sensibly felt than in New Jersey. Here the people had 
suffered all the horrors of war. When the royal army first 
entered the State the inhabitants generally remained quietly 
in their houses, and many of them received certificates of 
protection signed by order of the British commander-in- 
chief. These papers, however, were wholly disregarded by 
the licentious and unrestrained soldiery. No class of citizens 
was exempt from plunder and insult: the property of the 
inhabitants was taken and destroyed without distinction. 
The Hessians could not read the certificates of protection, 
and the British soldiers deemed it foul play that the Hes- 
sians should be the only plunderers. The enemy therefore 
made no distinction between friend and foe. Neither age 
nor sex was protected from outrage. Men, women and 
children were robbed and stripped, and often left in their 
houses without so much as a blanket or an article of clothing 
to cover their nakedness. Furniture which could not be 

11. What authority was given to Washington? 

12. AVhat effect had these successes on New Jersey? What is said 
of the conduct of the enemy in the State ? Describe some of the out- 
rajies committed ? 



140 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

carried away was wantonly destroyed. Cattle and horses 
were driven off. Dwellings and outhouses were burned or 
rendered uninhabitable, and even churches and public build- 
ings were consumed. Young girls, middle-aged and old 
women were treated in the most barbarous and cruel 
manner. 

13. This terrible suffering accomplished for the American 
cause what the earnest appeals of patriots, the recommenda- 
tions of Congress, the zealous exertions of Governor Livings- 
ton and the State authorities, together with the suj)plications 
of General Washington, could not effect. The whole country 
was aroused, and the people as one man rose in arms 
against the invaders. Those who from age and infirmities 
were unable to enter the army acted as spies and informers. 
They kept a strict watch on the movements of the enemy, 
and made haste to communicate all important information to 
their countrymen in arms, and all who were able enrolled 
themselves in organized companies and joined the troops in 
the field. The militia of New Jersey, which had hitherto 
been overawed by the presence of the enemy to such an ex- 
tent as to render it almost useless, was now inspirited and 
disciplined for the duties of the severest campaigns. Detach- 
ments scoured the country in every direction, seized the 
British stragglers wherever found, and in several sharp skir- 
mishes conducted themselves with the steadiness and gal- 
lantry of veterans, achieving marked successes over the 
British troops. 

14. Within four days after the battle of Princeton a com- 
pany of " Waldeckers" was completely destroyed by the 
New Jersey militia under Colonel Spencer, at Springfield. 
On the 2()th of January, General Dickinson, with about 400 
militia and a company of Pennsylvania riflemen, fell upon a 

13. Wliat effect had these outrages on tlie people ? 

14. Name some of the exploits of the State militia? 



WASHINGTON'S PROCLAMATION. 141 

British foraging party at Somerset Court-house, and captured 
40 wagons, upward of 100 liorses, with a large number of 
cattle and sheep, which the enemy had collected. A month 
later. Colonel Neilson, of New Brunswick, surprised and cap- 
tured Major Stockton and his company of Tories near that 
place. 

15. Thus, in an incredibly short time, the Americans 
had completely overrun the Jerseys. The enemy was forced 
to leave Woodbridge. General Maxwell surprised the gar- 
rison at Elizabeth and took nearly 100 prisoners, with a quan- 
tity of baggage. The British were driven from Newark, and 
after a few weeks the royal troops were shut up in New 
Brunswick and Amboy. 

16. General Putnam pitched his camp at Princeton, and 
guarded the country in that vicinity. During the winter he 
sent out flying expeditions toward the enemy's lines, which 
greatly perplexed and harassed the British commander. 

17. Washington took advantage of this favorable senti- 
ment in the State, and issued a proclamation directed to all 
the inhabitants Avho had taken protection from the enemy. 
It ofiered full and free pardon to all who would appear before 
any general ofiicer and swear allegiance to the United States. 
The same terms were also included in an act passed by the 
New Jersey Legislature, wdiich was at this time in session. 
These measures had a very salutary effect upon the people. 
Many flocked in from every quarter to take the oath of alle- 
giance, and a strong sentiment in favor of American inde- 
pendence now grew up where but a few weeks before loyalty 
to Great Britain filled the community. 

18. The rising spirit of liberty spread through the whole 

15. What other movements were made ? 

16. What is said of Putnam's troops? 

17. What efforts were made to win tlie people to the cause of inde- 
pendence ? 



142 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

State of New Jersey. The work of organizing the militia Avas 
carried on vigorously, and the war of skirmishes on every 
side of the British army was kept np throughout the winter. 
The loss to the British in this succession of encounters was 
considerably more than that sustained at Trenton and Prince- 
ton. The enemy's foraging parties were so closely watched 
and so frequently captured that their cavalry and draft 
horses were put on short allowance, and at the oj^ening of 
spring they were in very ill condition to enter upon a 
campaign. 

19. The British government had sent a powerful army 
into Canada, commanded by General Burgoyne. When the 
spring of 1777 opened this army began to move toward the 
upper valley of the Hudson. Washington believed that 
General Howe, with the British army at New York, would 
either move up the Hudson to meet Burgoyne's troops, or 
would endeavor, by a campaign across the State of New 
Jersey, to capture Philadelphia. He therefore determined 
to remain in the high grounds of the State to discipline his 
ai-my and arrange his plans to meet the enemy, no matter 
in what direction he should move. On the 28th of May 
the army broke camp at Morristown and advanced to Middle- 
brook, not far from the Raritan and ten miles from New 
Brunswick. His army numbered 8378 men, of whom up- 
ward of 2000 were sick. More than half of these troops had 
never met the enemy, and were therefore undisciplined in 
battle. General Sullivan lay at Princeton with a body of 
Continental troops, which was daily increased by the addi- 
tions of New Jersey militia and by the arrival of re(?ruits 
from the Southern States. General Howe had resolved not 
to attack the Continental army in its fortified camp, but en- 

18. Wliat was tlie state of public feeling? 

19. Wliat is said of the condition of tlie enemy? What transpired 
in the North ? What was the strengtii of Washington's army ? 



MOVEMENTS OF GENERAL HOWE. 143 

deavored to draw it out in the open field, in the hope that he 
might there meet it and overwhehu it. This, however, Wash- 
ington had resolved to avoid, and had instructed all his gen- 
eral officers to harass and annoy, but not to attack, the 
British forces. 

20. Early on the morning of the 14th of June, General 
HoT/e marched out from New Brunswick in two columns. 
The first was led by Lord Cornwallis, and reached Somerset 
Court-house at the break of day. The second division, 
under General Heister, marched to Middlebush, between 
New Brunswick and Somerville. Receiving intelligence 
that the enemy was approaching, Washington posted his 
Avhole army in order of battle on the heights in front of his 
camp. This position he maintained during the day, and at 
night the troops slept on the ground. The New Jersey militia, 
with commendable promptness and with unexampled ardor, 
took the field in great numbers and marched to General Sulli- 
van's camp, who had retired behind the Sourland Hills, toward 
Flemington, where he collected quite a large army. When 
General Howe found that he could not draw Washington 
away from his strong position, and saw that the inhabitants 
of the country all around him had rushed to arms to resist 
his progress, he determined to waste no more time in en- 
deavoring to reach Philadelphia by marching through New 
Jersey. He therefore returned to New Brunswick with his 
whole army on the night of the 19th. From thence, on 
the 22d, he marched to Amboy, and sent his baggage trains 
across to Staten Island, on a portable bridge which he 
had constructed dui'ing the winter for the purpose of crossing 
the Delaware. 

21. Washington had closely watched the movements of 

20. What movements were made by the enemy? How did Wash- 
ington prepare to meet these? Why did Howe withdraw to Amboy? 

21. How did Washington embarrass his march? 



144 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the enemy, and sent General Greene with three brigades 
with orders to fall upon the rear of the British army. Gen- 
eral Sullivan was directed to move with his division to co- 
operate with Greene, and General Maxwell was sent to 
attack the enemy's flank. These troops inflicted serious 
damage on General Howe's rearguard. Washington ad- 
vanced his whole army to Quibbletown, on the road to 
Amboy, and Lord Sterling's division moved forward to 
Matouchin Meeting-house. 

22. General Howe, observing these movements, deter- 
mined to face about, and, if possible, bring on a general en- 
gagement with the American army. Early on the morning 
of the 26th he made a rapid march in two columns toward 
Westfield. The right, commanded by Lord Cornwallis, took 
the road by Woodbridge to Scotch Plains ; and the left, ac- 
companied by Sir William Howe in person, marched by 
Matouchin Meeting-house to ftill in the rear of the first 
column. General Howe had ordered his left column to pass 
round and attack the left flank of the American army at 
Quibbletown, while Lord Cornwallis should gain the heights 
on the left of the camp at Middlebrook. Four battalions 
with artillery were detached to take posts at Bonhamtown. 

23. Washington discovered the movements of the enemy, 
and at once penetrated his object. He therefore instantly 
put his army in motion, and with the utmost celerity re- 
gained his fortifications at Middlebrook and took possession 
of the heights on the left, which it had been the design of the 
enemy to seize. Lord Cornwallis encountered Lord Ster- 
ling's division, and a smart skirmish ensued, in which the 
Americans were driven from the ground with the loss of 
three field-pieces and a few men, and Sterling withdrew his 

22. What did Howe attempt to do? 

23. How did Washington prepare to meet him? Wiiat was the re- 
sult of tilt movement? 



THE BRITISH LAND IN MARYLAND. 145 

troops to the hills about the Scotch Plains. General Howe 
saw that the object for which he had performed this skillful 
raanffiuvre could not be obtained. He therefore marched 
back through Rahway to Amboy, and on the 30th of June 
crossed with his whole army to Staten Island. 

24. Washington remained for some days at his camp at 
Middlebrook, until the enemy had withdrawn his military 
stores and baggage from the coast opposite Amboy. He 
then saw that Howe had given up his intention of marching 
across the State to Philadelphia. 

25. General Howe embarked his troops at New York and 
put to sea on the 23d of July. Washington regarded this as 
a movement against Philadelphia from the south, and there- 
fore took up the march toward the Delaware. On the 30th 
of July the enemy's fleet appeared off" the capes of the Dela- 
ware, and orders were given by Washington for concentrating 
his forces at Philadelphia. The fleet, however, soon disap- 
peared from the mouth of the bay, and no further intelli- 
gence was received of its movements until the 7th of August, 
when it was reported to be a few leagues southwai'd of the 
Delaware capes. On the 16th of August the Avhole fleet ap- 
peared at the mouth of the Chesapeake. Meanwhile, General 
Washington had posted his forces on the Delaware below 
Philadelphia. The foists at Red Bank on the east side of the 
Delaware, and on Mud Island on the west side, were strength- 
ened and the garrisons were increased. 

26. The British landed near the village of Elkton, in 
Maryland, on the 25th of August. Washington moved his 
army to the banks of the Brandywine, and prepared to meet 
the enemy at Chadd's Ford. The British army confronted 

24. What was given up ? 

25. What great movement was now undertaken ? What is said 
of it? 

26. Wliere did the British land? Wliere did the armies meet? 
13 K 



146 HISTORY OF NEW JEBSEY. 

Washington's line on the 11th of September. Skirmishing * 

soon began between the advance parties. At ten o'clock, 
General Maxwell, commanding the New Jersey troops, which 
had been sent over the stream to watch the movements of 
the enemy, was driven across Brandy wine creek, below the 
fords. General Howe sent a detachment under General 
Knyphausen to threaten the crossing at Chadd's Ford, while 
with the main body of his army he marched up the creek, 
crossed at the uj^per fords and came down upon Washington's 
right flank. 

27. A severe engagement took place near Birmingham 
Meeting-house, beginning at four o'clock in the afternoon. 
The enemy broke through the American lines, and compelled 
Washington to fall back in order to save his army. The 
British rushed forward in hot pursuit, eager for the total de- 
struction of the patriot regiments. General Muhlenberg's 
brigade Avas instantly formed and thrown forward as a rear- 
guard. These troops made such obstinate resistance to the 
advance of the enemy that Howe was compelled to move 
with great caution, and finally receiving a severe check by 
the charge of General Greene's division, he abandoned the 
pursuit. 

28. While the battle was raging on the right, Knyphausen 
attempted to cross the creek at Chadd's Ford, but he was so 
stoutly resisted by Generals Wayne and Maxwell that he 
was unable to accomplish his purpose. When, however, 
the right wing was defeated, the troops at the ford fell 
back and joined the main army, which retreated upon 
Chester. 

29. In this battle the Americans lost 900 killed and 
wounded. Among the wounded was General La Fayette, 

27. What battle was fought? Describe it. 

28. Describe tlie battle on the left. 

29. What were the casualties ? 



ATTACK ON FORTS MERCER AND MIFFLIN. 147 

who had but a short time before arrived in America and 
joined Wasliiugton's army. The British loss was 100 killed 
and 400 wounded. 

30. Washington retired to Philadelphia and encamped his 
army at Germantown. Four days after the battle of Bran- 
dywine the Americans crossed the Schuylkill and marched 
toward Goshen, for the commander-in-chief had determined 
to risk another battle for the possession of the city. The 
enemy had encamped near Village Green, in Delaware 
county, and on the morning of the 16th the two armies con- 
fronted each other. The skirmishers in the front of the 
picket-lines opened a brisk fire, when suddenly a violent 
rain-storm set in and separated the hostile forces. Washing- 
ton was informed by his officers that the ammunition of his 
men had become so wet as to be unfit for use ; he therefore 
withdrew to Warwick Furnace, where he obtained a new 
supply. 

31. On the 23d of September the British army crossed the 
Schuylkill near Norristown, and three days later marched 
into Philadelphia. Howe ordered the main body of his 
troops into camp at Germantown, but established his head- 
quarters in the city. The British general had sent his fleet 
from the Chesapeake round into the Delaware bay, and had 
ordered the navy to join the army at Philadelphia. 

32. The forts on the Delaware below the city were de- 
fended by the American garrisons with a tenacity that 
greatly perplexed the British commander. The British fleet 
was unable to pass up the river until Fort Mifflin, on the 
Pennsylvania side, and Fort Mercer, on the New Jersey side, 

30. Where did the armies encamp after the battle? How was an- 
other battle prevented ? 

31. When did the enemy occupy Philadelphia? 

32. What is said of the forts on the Delaware and the efforts made to 
capture them ? 



148 IIISTOBT OF NEW JERSEY. 

were captured. In the efforts to gain possession of these 
forts nearly two months were consumed, and lieavy losses 
were sustained by the enemy. On the 2'2d of October, over 
2000 Hessian grenadiers, under Donop, made an assault on 
Fort Mercer. They were repulsed with heavy loss and their 
commander was slain. The little garrison of patriots defend- 
ing the fort numbered less than 500 men, and was commanded 
by Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher Greene. The enemy's war 
vessels came up the river to assist in the reduction of the fort, 
but the 12 galleys and the 2 floating batteries from the Penn- 
sylvania navy attacked these royal ships with such vigor that 
two of the largest were driven aground and blown to pieces 
by the explosion of their magazines. 

33. These disasters greatly exasperated the British gen- 
eral, and he therefore concentrated his land and naval forces 
against Fort Mifflin. The heroic garrison defended that post 
with matchless courage until their block-houses were re- 
duced to heaps of ruins, the pallisades broken down, their 
guns dismounted, and until the men, Avorn down by incessant 
labor and loss of sleep, were unable to continue the defence. 
The garrison then withdrew on the night of the 15th of No- 
vember, set fire to the barracks and carried away their can- 
non and stores. Three days later, Fort Mercer was evacuated, 
and the American fleet on the Delaware sailed by the city at 
night and escaped up the river. Thus, after a long and dis- 
astrous contest, the army and fleet of the enemy formed a 
junction at Philadelphia. 

34. General Washington had pitched his camp at Potts- 
grove, 35 miles up the Schuylkill river. On the 4th of Oc- 
tober he fell suddenly on the British camp at Germantown, 
fought a severe engagement with the British troops at that 
point, and upon the approach of reinforcements from Phila- 

33. How were these forts finally taken ? 

34. "What is said of the battle of Germantown ? 



WIA'TER QUARTERS AT VALLEY FORGE. 149 

delphia rapidly withdrew his army and encamped near 
Whitemarsh. 

35. On the 4th of December the British forces marched 
out against this camp, in the hope of being able to surprise 
and destroy Washington's army. Fortunately for the Amer- 
ican cause, a patriotic lady — Lydia Darrach — had overheard 
the reading of General Howe's secret orders for this expedi- 
tion, and had sent word to Washington of the approaching 
danger. The British general, to his great surprise and mor- 
tification, discovered the American army drawn up ready to 
receive him. He therefore sullenly withdrew his forces to 
their camp. 

36. On the 11th the American army went into winter 
quarters at Valley Forge. The men moved toward the 
wooded hillsides selected for their resting-place, many with- 
out shoes to protect their bleeding feet from the ice and 
frozen ground of midwinter. They speedily converted the 
forest trees into huts, which they plastered with mud and 
covered with boughs and bark. The untiring vigilance of 
Washington secured the camp against surprise. Love of 
country and aflTectionate attachment to their general sus- 
tained the troops under hardships that would have disheart- 
ened and dispersed weaker and less patriotic men. The 
winter was colder and longer than usual ; the men were 
thinly clad ; had not so much as bare straw to lie down upon 
at night ; often half starved for want of even the meanest 
food. Yet that freezing, starving little army of patriots 
knew that its cause was just, and felt that its labors and suf- 
ferings must end in victory. 

35. Where did the enemy attempt to surprise Washington's camp? 
How was this prevented ? 

36. Where did Washington's army go into winter quarters? What 
was the condition of the army? 

13 » 



CHAPTER XIV. 

British Foraging Parties— March Across the State— Battle of 
Monmouth. 




Ll H \t r M NM LTIl l\irLLHEir 



1. After the battle of Brandy wine, New Jersey was 
called upon to furnish reinforcements for the army. The 
recollection of past suffering, and the fear that the enemy 
might again occupy the State, induced the inhabitants to 
enlist more freely and to reorganize the militia of the State. 

2. Sir Henry Clinton, the British commander at New 
York, invaded the northern counties in order to draw the 
attention of the New Jersey troops from General Howe's 
army at Philadelphia. He entered the State and marched 
3000 men by way of Elizabeth, on the 13th of September, 
1777, The enemy collected large quantities of provisions. 

Chapter XIV. — 1. What occurred after the battle of Brandy wine? 
2. How was the State invaded? 
150 



THE SPIRIT OF THE STATE MILITIA. 151 

General McDougal, Avith a division of Continental troops, 
and General Dickinson, at the head of the New Jersey mili- 
tia, marched against Clinton's troops, and compelled them 
to withdraw to Staten Island. 

3. These movements on the northern border of the State 
induced the Jersey militiamen to watch the enemy in that 
quarter. A small body, however, crossed the Delaware to 
co-operate with Washington's array on the Schuylkill. After 
the battle of Gerniantown the New Jersey troops were or- 
dered back to the State for home defence. 

4. Lord Cornwallis entered New Jersey opposite Philadel- 
phia with 5000 men, and j3amped on Gloucester Point, 
whence foraging parties were sent into the country to collect 
provisions. General Greene commanded a. body of troops, 
part of which were New Jersey militia, but he did not feel 
himself sufficiently strong to attack the British in their 
entrenched camp. At a favorable opportunity, however, 
Greene sent a detachment of 150 men from Morgan's rifle 
corps, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Butler, and about 
an equal number of State militia, under General La Fayette, 
against a picket station of the enemy about 300 strong. A 
spirited engagement took place, in which the enemy was 
routed and pursued to the very lines of his encampment. 
The Americans then hastily retired and left the enemy in 
such perfect bewilderment that he did not pursue the victori- 
ous Jersey men. La Fayette, in a letter to Washington, said : 
" I found these riflemen even above their reputation, and the 
militia above all expectation I could have formed of them." 
Soon after this, Cornwallis withdrew his division to Phila- 
delphia. 

5. The loss to the Americans at Brandywine, Philadel- 

3. What was the effect of these movements ? 

4. What engagements took place opposite Philadelphia? Wliat is 
said of the spirit of the Jersey militia? 



152 HISTORY OF NEW JKRSEY. 

pliia aiifl (Icnuaiitowii in tlif fall of 1 777 was iiion^ tlian 
balanced jjy the capture of the avIioIc! JJritisli army under 
General Burgoyne, near Saratoga, on the l.'3th of October of 
the same year. An army of 5752 British officers and soldiers 
was thus destroyed and captured. The finest train of artil- 
lery that had ever entered the American continent, together 
with 7000 stands of excellent arms, clothing for 7000 recruits, 
V. ith tents and other military stores of great value, fell into 
the hands of tlie Continental troojjs. This ev(!nt filled all 
patriot hearts with joy. It enabled (leneral Washington to 
draw large reinforcements froju the northern army to o[)eratc 
against the enemy in Pennsylv.ania. It greatly discouraged 
the British ministry, gave character and credit to tlu; United 
States in all ])arts of the world, enabled Franklin to con- 
clude a treaty with France, wherein tin; king acknowledged 
the independence of the colonies and |)ledged himself to assist 
with money and arms to maintain it. 

6. In compliance with tliis treaty, the French government 
sent a scpiadron of 12 ships and 4 large frigates to America, 
with orders to proceed to the mouth of the Delawan; antl 
blockade the British fleet in tliat bay. 

7. Early in the spring of 1778, the enemy made incursions 
into New Jersey. About the middle of ]\Iarch a body of 
1200, commanded by Colonel Mahwood, entered the State at 
Salem, and dispersed a small body of inilitia stationed at that 
])lace under Colonels Hand and Holme. Several skirmishes 
took place on the banks of Alloways creek, in which the 
militia lost about 50 men. General Washington had learned 
of this expedition, and sent Colonel Shreve with a regiment 
of regulars to join the New Jersey militia at Iladdonfield. 

5. How Avere the American losses balanced? Wliat was the effect 

of tlio capture of I5iirgo\'ne? 

0. Wliat did tlie French govornnieiit do? 
7. AVhat occurred at Salem? 



Till': TililTmiT EVACUATE I'///LA D/CL/'IIIA. IT)!} 

Miiliwoix] addressed ii lett(!r to (JoloiK;! Iliiml, in uliich Ik; 
offered t(j pay for all the cattit; and foraj^c; lie had (;olleeted 
if the militia would lay down their arin.s and return to their 
homes, but if they refused to accept this proposition, he 
threatened to arm the Tories and to authorize them to cap- 
ture all p(!rs()ns found in arms against tlu; royal autlujrity, 
to l)urn tluir dwellings and reduce th<;ir famili(!S to th(! ut- 
most poverty. (JoIoik;! Jfarid indignantly n^jettted the pro- 
position, and Mahwood fully executed his threat. He seized 
and imprisoned the patriots, and in the lower part of the 
State plundered their hou.sr-s and destroyed their pnjperty 
without restraint. 

H. In the beginning of June, Sir Henry Clinton assumed 
command of the Jiritish for(;es at Philadcilphia. On the 
18th of that month he evacuated the city and took up 
his march across New Jersey toward New York. 'J'he 
approach of the French fleet rendered Philadelphia a dan- 
gerous camp for the enemy. He therefore wisely with- 
drew his army and fleet before the arrival of the French 
.squadron. 

i). Washington had closely watched the movements, and 
had disposed his forces so as to follow the Briti.sh army, 
and, if possible, bring it to battle upon advantageous 
grounds. General Maxwell, with the N(;w .Jersey brigade, 
was ordered to take post at Mount Holly and unlit; with Cien- 
eral Dickinson, who was tirming the New .j<;r.sey militia for 
the fiurpose (jf breaking down bridg(;s and felling trees in tin; 
roads, and doing all that was possible to embarrass the march 
of the (;nemy. Orders were given to these troops to keep 
themselves in light marching order and to avoid a general 
engagement, 

8. Wlicn wan Philadelpfiia evacuated? 

9. VVliat had Wasliington rcHolved to do? W'liat ordorH were 
iHsued ? 



154 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

10. General Clinton moved with great caution. He 
seemed to expect an attack, and held himself in readiness 
to give battle. He encamped at Haddonfield for one night, 
and thence marched through Mount Holly, Slabtown and 
Crosswicks to Allentown and Imlaytown, where he arrived 
on the 24th of June. Dickinson and Maxwell retired 
slowly before the enemy, breaking down the bridges and 
otherwise destroying the roads. 

11. Washington broke camp at Valley Forge, crossed the 
Delaware at Coryell's Ferry on the 22d, and encamped at 
Hopewell on the following day. He had resolved to hold 
his army on the high grounds and to guard the passes of the 
Highlands. General Arnold was ordered to enter Philadel- 
phia, and to send forward a detachment of 400 Continental 
troops and all the militia that could be collected, under the 
command of General Cadwalader, to harass the rearguard of 
the enemy. From Hopewell, Washington sent out Morgan 
with 600 riflemen to watch the enemy's right flank, and or- 
dered Dickinson, with about 1000 Jersey militia and Max- 
well's brigade, to hang on the enemy's left. 

12. The armies in New Jersey were now of nearly equal 
strength. The British numbered about 10,000 men, fully 
armed and well disciplined. Washington had under his 
command nearly 12,000, part of whom were militia and in- 
dift'erently armed. A council of war decided against accept- 
ing a general engagement. Generals Wayne and Cadwalader 
were strongly in favor of giving battle. General La Fayette 
favored the decision of these officers, but did not press his 
views. Washington himself was resolved upon battle. Al- 
io. Who commanded the enemy in New Jersey ? How did he 

move? How was his marcli embarrassed? 

11. How did Washington conduct tlie pursuit? 

12. What was the relative strengtli of the armies in New Jersey? 
Who favored a general engagement ? 



MOVEMENTS OF THE AMERICANS. 155 

though the council of war decided against him, he was so 
strongly supported by a few officers in whom he had the 
highest confidence that he determined to bring on a general 
engagement. 

13. The enemy was now approaching Monmouth Court- 
house. Washington sent forward a select body of 1500 men 
under Brigadier-General Scott, to join the divisions on the 
left flank of the enemy. He afterward sent forward General 
Wayne, with an additional corps of 1000 men, to strengthen 
this part of his army. These troops, numbering about 4000, 
and placed under the command of La Fayette, gained the 
enemy's front. The general was ordered by tlie commander- 
in-chief to co-operate with General Dickinson to impede the 
march of the British and to inflict upon them the severest pos- 
sible loss. The execution of these orders would inevitably 
lead to a general battle. General La Fayette so understood 
them, and fully prepared himself for that event. 

14. On the 26th, Washington moved his army forward 
to Greenburg to support his advanced division. His van- 
guard had pressed forward and taken position on the Mon- 
mouth road, about five miles in the rear of the enemy, 
with the intention of attacking him on the next morning, 
but the intense heat of the day and a heavy storm coming 
up checked the progress of the enemy, and La Fayette was 
ordered to draw oflT his troops toward Englishtown. Early 
on the morning of the 27th, Lee was sent forward with 2000 
men to join La Fayette. 

15. W^ashington communicated to his army his intention 
to attack the enemy as soon as he should attempt to move 
from his present position. At five o'clock on the morning 
of the 28th, word was received from General Dickinson, at 

13. How did Washington dispose his troops? 

14. What disposition did Wasliington make for battle ? 

15. What occurred on the 28th of June? 



156 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the head of the New Jersey militia, that the front of the 
enemy was in motion. The troops were immediately under 
arms, and Lee was directed to move up and attack the rear. 
He was at the same time informed that the main army Avould 
march to support him. 

16. General Clinton, perceiving that the Americans were 
upon him, changed the order of his march. His baggage 
was placed under the care of General Knyphausen, while the 
flower of his army formed the rear division, commanded by 
Lord Cornwallis. In order to avoid pressing upon Knyp- 
hausen, Cornwall is remained quiet in his camp until about 
eight o'clock. He then descended from the heights of Free- 
hold into a plain about three miles in extent, and took up 
his line of march in the rear of the baggage trains. General 
Lee now prepared to attack the rearguard of the enemy. 
General Dickinson was ordered to detach part of his troops 
to co-operate with Lee, and Morgan was sent to threaten the 
enemy's right flank. Lee gained the heights of Freehold as 
soon as the enemy had left them, and following the British 
into the plains, ordered General Wayne to open the battle. 

17. Clinton now discovered the Americans on both his 
flanks, and heard the roar of attack upon his rearguard. 
Believing that this was an attempt to seize his baggage 
trains, he determined to fall upon the troops in his j-ear so 
vigorously as to compel Washington to call off" the troops 
from his flanks. 

18. It was now about ten o'clock, and both armies were 
preparing for action. At this moment a column of Ameri- 
cans moving obliquely on the flank led Lee to suppose that 
Washington had ordered the troops in front to retire. He 
therefore resolved to withdraw his division behind a morass 

16. Describe the opening of the battle of Monmouth. 

17. What did Clinton resolve lo do? 

18. Wiiat blunder was committed? 



THE RETREAT OF GENERAL LEE. 157 

that was in his rear. The enemy opened a vigorous attack 
on this retiring column. The firing was heard in the rear, 
and Washington, regarding it as the opening of the battle, 
immediately ordered his troops to throw off their packs and 
advance rapidly to the front. The commanding general had 
received no intelligence from Lee notifying him of his re- 
treat. As the troops approached the scene of action, Wash- 
ington rode forward, and to his utter astonishment and mor- 
tification met his advanced corps retiring before the enemy 
without having made any considerable efforts to maintain 
its ground. 

19. Washington galloped forward to the rearguard of the 
division, which was closely pressed. He there met General 
Lee, whom he addressed with great warmth, implying disap- 
probation of his conduct. He gave orders to the troops to 
form immediately upon advantageous grounds, which he 
pointed out, and directed General Lee to make every effort 
to stop the advancing column of the enemy. The com- 
mander-in-chief then rode back himself to arrange the rear 
division for battle. These orders were executed with great 
promptness. A sharp conflict ensued, and when General 
Lee's troops were forced from the ground on which they had 
been posted, they retired in good order and formed in the 
rear of Englishtown. 

20. Meanwhile the left wing and a second division of the 
American army had formed on high ground, partly in a 
wood and partly in an open field covered by the morass in 
front. Lord Sterling, who commanded this wing, brought 
up a detachment of artillery, which played with considerable 
effect on a body of the British pressing to the charge. This 
artillery fire, well supported by the infantry, eflfectually 
stopped the advance of the enemy, 

19. How was it rectified ? 

20. How was the line of battle formed? 
14 



158 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

21. General Greene, commanding the right wing, had 
early in the morning been sent out to the New Church, two 
miles from Englishtown, with orders to form in the Mon- 
mouth road, a short distance in the rear of the court-house. 
Having, however, learned of Lee's retreat, he immediately 
withdrew his division and took position on the right. The 
enemy, being unable to overcome the artillery fire in the 
front, attemjited to turn the left flank of the Americans, but 
was repulsed with severe loss. An attempt on the right Avas 
equally unsuccessful. General Greene had there strongly 
posted his artillery and infantry, and cut down the enemy 
with a severe enfilading fire. At the same moment General 
Wayne came up with his infantry upon the front, and 
charged with such vigor that he forced the British to with- 
draw behind the morass to the grounds upon which the first 
halt had been made. 

22. The enemy's line was reformed on very strong ground ; 
both flanks were protected by thick woods and morasses, 
while the front could be reached only through a narrow pass. 
Nevertheless, Washington resolved to renew the engagement. 
He sent a body of troops under General Poor to gain the 
enemy's right flank, while Woodford with his brigade turned 
the left and his artillery advanced upon the front. The ob- 
structions upon the flank, however, were found to be so great 
that before the troops could gain that part of the line it Avas 
nearly dark. The divisions Avere therefore ordered to halt. 
The troops on both flanks and on the front bivouacked, and 
Avere held in perfect readiness to rcncAV the engagement. 
AVashington passed the night in the midst of his soldiers, en- 
couraging them by his presence to exert their whole ])OAver 
on the coming day to destroy the British army in their 



21. Describe General Greene's movements. Wayne's charge. 

22. How did the battle end? 



BRITISH AND AMERICAN LOSSES. 159 

front. About midnight the enemy silently stole away, and 
left the patriot army in jjossession of the field. 

23. Washington regarded the action as highly favorable 
to the American cause, and finding that the enemy would 
gain the Highlands before he could be overtaken, he resolved 
to relinquish the pursuit. Leaving the New Jersey brigade 
to hover upon the enemy's rear and to protect the country 
from depredations, he withdrew the main body of his army 
to the Hudson to occupy the passes in the Highlands, 

24. In the battle of Monmouth the loss of the Americans 
was 8 officers and 61 privates killed, and about 160 wounded. 
The British reported their loss at 4 officers and 184 privates 
killed, 16 officers and 154 privates wounded. This report, 
however, was proven to be false by the presence of 4 officers 
and nearly 300 privates left dead on the field. In addition 
to the casualties of this battle, the British lost in their 
march through New Jersey about 100 prisoners and nearly 
1000 by desertion. 

25. After passing a few days on the high grounds near 
Middletown, General Clinton marched to Sandy Hook, and 
thence transported his army to New York. 

23. How did Washington regard the result? How was the enemy 
pursued ? 

24. What were the casualties in the battle of Monmouth ? When 
did the Britisli withdraw from New Jersey ? 



CHAPTER XV. 

Tory Marauders — Villages Burned and Inhabitants Murdered 
— Destiiidion in Camp — Battle of Springfield. 




LLUM.NU UF 



.;LT lAKMS. 



1. After the battle of Monmouth and the expulsion of 
the enemy from New Jersey, active military operations were 
transferred to the South. Georgia, the Carolinas and Vir- 
ginia became the battle-fields, and during nearly four years, 
beginning with November, 1778, the struggle for independ- 
ence pressed sorely upon the inhabitants of those States. 
The enemy maintained his hold on New York throughout 
the war. Washington's army in New Jersey, with detach- 
ments on the Highlands and in New England, kept a strict 
watch on the Bi'itish forces camped on the New York islands. 



Chapter XV.— 1. Wlmt occurred after the battle of Monmouth? 
160 



NEW JERSEY AGAIN INVADED. 161 

2. Marauding j^arties and foraging expeditions frequently 
left these islands to prey upon the inhabitants of the surround- 
ing country. Near the close of September, 1778, a body of 5000 
troops under Cornwallis entered New Jersey, A detachment 
of this expedition surprised Colonel Baylor's cavalry regiment 
at Harrington. The enemy came upon the cavalrymen at 
night, and found them sleeping in a barn. They surrounded 
the regiment, and, refusing quarter, put the men to the bay- 
onet : 67 were killed or wounded, and all of the officers were 
wounded and captured. A few days later, this massacre was 
fairly matched by Colonel Richard Butler and Major Lee, 
who, with a body of Provincial cavalry, fell upon a party 
of the enemy commanded by Captain Donop, and, without 
the loss of a man, slew 10 of the enemy's party, captured 18 
and carried away the officers as prisoners of war. 

3. About the same time, Count Pulaski's camp at Little 
Egg Harbor was betrayed into the hands of the enemy by a 
professed British deserter. Three companies of infantry and 
40 cavalrymen were captured ; but the principal body, led 
by the count, cut its way through the enemy's lines and 
escaped. 

4. In December, Washington's army went into winter 
quartei's. Part of it camped in Connecticut, and part at 
West Point and at Middlebrook. 

5. In the spring of 1779 strong expeditions were sent 
against the Indians on the Western frontier, who had been 
employed by the British to plunder the border settlements 
and massacre the inhabitants. General Maxwell's brigade 
of New Jersey troops, stationed for the winter at Elizabeth, 

2. How was New Jersey invaded ? How was Baylor's cavalry de- 
stroyed ? How was this massacre avenged ? 

3. What occurred at Little Egg Harbor? 

4. Where did the army go, into winter quarters ? 

5. W^hat occurred in the spring of 1779? 

14 « L 



162 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

was ordered to join General Sullivan's expedition against the 
Six Nations in the western part of New York. 

6. Early in May the officers of the First New Jersey regi- 
ment in Maxwell's brigade sent a remonstrance to the gen- 
eral, addressed to the State Legislature, declaring that unless 
their complaints on the subject of pay and subsistence re- 
ceived immediate attention, they would, at the expiration 
of three days, resign their commissions, and requested the 
Legislature in that event to appoint officers to succeed 
them. 

7. In forwarding this address to the Legislature, General 
Maxwell sent a letter, in which he said: "Nothing but 
necessity, the officers being unable to support themselves, 
would have induced them to resign at so critical a juncture." 
These officers at the same time declared their readiness to 
make every necessary preparation to march against the 
Indians, and to keep their regiments in discipline until a 
reasonable time for the appointment of their successors 
should elapse. Washington attempted by patriotic appeals 
and paternal remonstrances to change the resolution of these 
officers. Their condition, however, was one of extreme 
privation. 

8. The petitions of the officers and the letter of General 
Maxwell were laid before the Legislature. A resolution was 
adopted to refer the matter to Congress. A resolution was 
also offered, censuring General Maxwell for the use of too 
strong language in his letter. This, however, was voted 
down. 

9. This tardy action of the Legislature was not seconded 
by the patriotic people of the State. The soldiers and offi- 

6. What difficulty occurred in Maxwell's brigade? 

7. What did General Maxwell say of this ? 

8. How was the petition of the officers received by the Legislature? 

9. What action did the people take? 



SULLIVAN'S EXPEDITION. 163 

cers in the camp at Elizabeth were in want, and their con- 
dition demanded immediate relief. Governor Livingston, 
joined by eight patriotic and wealthy citizens,* called upon 
the treasurer of the State on the 15th of January and re- 
quested him to pay into the hands of Enos Kelsey, a com- 
missioner for the purchase of clothing, the sum of £7000, to 
be applied to the purchase of clothes for these officers, 
ugreeing to replace the sum in the State treasury if the 
Legislature at its next session did not assume the debt. 

10. On the 30th of April, the Legislature, being then in 
session, assumed this debt, and appropriated the additional 
sum of £25,000 for the purpose of furnishing other officers 
with necessary supplies. The commissioners, however, were 
tardy in filling these orders, and on the 7th of May the re- 
monstrance of the officers was repeated. The house then 
directed that clothing should be furnished immediately to 
the amount of £200 to each officer, and that the sum of £40 
should be paid to each soldier in the brigade. 

11. After these difficulties had been adjusted, Sullivan's 
expedition marched to the Chemung Valley, where the In- 
dians and Tories had formed a large camp near Elmira. 
Sullivan attacked this camp on the 29th of August. General 
Hand and General Maxwell, commanding the New Jersey 
troops, were ordered to take the front of the enemy's line, 
while other troops operated on the flanks. The attack was 
successful, and the enemy was routed and driven across the 
river with great loss. 

12. During the summer of 1779 marauding parties of 

* The persons wlio joined the governoi- were — John Cooper, Andrew 
Sinnickson, Josepli Holmes, Robert Morris, Peter Tallman, Abraliani 
Vannest, Silas Condict and William Churchill Houston. 

10. What did the Legislature do for the officers ? 

11. What part did New Jersey take in Sullivan's expedition? 



164 HISTOET OF JSTEW JERSEY. 

Tories and expeditions of regular troops from New York 
and Staten Island made devastating excursions into New 
Jersey. The Tories sought i)lunder and revenge, whilst the 
regular troops were sent out to forage and to keep up the 
appearance of aggressive operations. The T-ory parties fre- 
quently took shelter in the deep pine forests of Monmouth 
county and plundered the inhabitants without distinction. 

13. Among the most notorious of these freebooters were, 
Fagan, Bourke, Stephen West, Ezekiel Williams and Fenton. 
Parties of militia were authorized to hunt down and destroy 
these Tory leaders, who, in their depredations, inflicted the 
most barbarous cruelties upon the inhabitants. Fagan was 
finally killed by a party of militia under Captain Benjamin 
Dennis. This same officer, with the assistance of a bold 
guide named Vankirk, entrapped Bourke, West and Wil- 
liams as they were in the act of embarking from Rockpond 
for New York with a large quantity of booty which they had 
collected. Dennis had concealed a party of his men in the 
thicket, Avho shot down these Tory leaders as they were en- 
tering their boats. Their bodies, with that of Fagan, were 
hung to the limbs of trees by chains. Fenton soon met the 
same fate. 

14. The inhabitants of Bergen county were particularly 
exposed to the hostile inroads of malicious Tories. On the 
10th of May a party of these savages entered the settlement 
of Closter, murdered or carried away the principal inhabit- 
ants, burned their dwellings and plundered the entire settle- 
ment, wantonly destroying the furniture and abusing the 
women. This party was a detachment from Colonel Van 
Bushkirk's regiment, who was one of the most violent Tory 

12. What is said of marauding parties from New York and Staten 
Island ? 

13. Wliat notorious freebooters were killed ? 

14. Wliat is said of the inhabitants of Bergen conntv. 



RAVAGES OF THE TORIES. 165 

partisans that infested the State. His companies were 
made up of the former residents of Closter and Tappan and 
a number of negroes. 

15. On the 17th of the same month, Van Bushkirk 
marched through Bergen county, marking his course at 
every point with desolation and slaughter. Not a house 
within his reach belonging to a patriot inhabitant escaped. 
Abraham Allen and George Campbell, influential citizens, 
Avere barbarously murdered. Joost Zabriskie, a prominent 
citizen, was stabbed in fifteen places, and two negro women 
in his place w^ere shot down for endeavoring to drive off" their 
master's cattle. The county militia rallied and marched 
against this horde of plunderers, but they avoided punish- 
ment by a precipitous retreat. 

16. On the 9th of June a body of 50 Tories entered 
Monmouth county. They murdered several of the inhab- 
itants, and returned to New York laden with plunder. 
About the 1st of August a small band of rufiians sur- 
rounded the house of Thomas Farr, near Crosswicks Baptist 
church, broke into his dwelling, cruelly wounded Mr. Farr 
and murdered his wife. His only daughter escaped by flying 
to the house of a neighbor. A party of the enemy's light 
dragoons landed at Stony Point, above Amboy, on the 18th 
of October. They burned the stores at Boundbrook, de- 
stroyed a number of boats at Van Veighton's bridge, and 
marched out to Somerset Court-house, which they also burned. 
On their return by way of New Brunswick they were attacked 
and routed by a body of militia, and their colonel was made 
a prisoner. 

17. The season for active operations in the North having 
closed, the army retired into winter quarters. The main 

15. Describe the conduct of the enemy in Bergen county. 

16. Describe the conduct of the enemy in Monmouth county. How 
was it punislied ? 



166 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

division, under Washington, encamped on the heights in the 
rear of Scotch PLains, New Jersey, but late in December 
moved to Morristown, where the soldiers occupied log huts 
during the winter. Detachments were thrown out toward the 
bay to watch the enemy on Staten Island. The destitution 
of the army in the winter of 1779 and 1780 was almost as 
great as that which the soldiers had suffered at Valley Forge 
two years l)efore. The supply of provisions was finally ex- 
hausted, and famine invaded the American camp at Morris- 
town. Washington addressed a circular letter to the magis- 
trates of the several counties in the State of New Jersey, 
requiring them to forward a quantity of meat and flour to 
the camp within six days, proportioned to the resources of 
the inhabitants. He stated that the pressing wants of the 
soldiers demanded immediate relief, and that if the supplies 
could not be obtained by this appeal, a resort to force would 
be inevitable. To the lasting honor of the patriotic people 
of the State, this appeal was promptly answered, and the 
necessary supplies were immediately furnished. The soldiers 
in camp patiently endured their hardships, and the people, 
from their scanty stores and their impoverished fields, will- 
ingly divided their supplies with their patriotic defenders in 
the neighboring camps. 

18. The winter was very severe. The Hudson river, New 
York bay and even some of the arms of the sea were frozen 
over with ice strong enough to bear the march of an army. 

19. On the night of the 14th of January, 1780, Washing- 
ton sent General Lord Sterling with 2500 men to 'join a de- 
tachment under General Erwin, with orders to march across 

17. Where did the armies go into winter quarters? What was 
the condition of the army at Morristown ? How did Washington 
supply its wants? 

18. What was the character of tlio winter? 

19. What eflbrt was made to capture Staten Island ? 



DEPRECIATION OF PAPER MONEY. 167 

the ice and attack the British troops on Staten Island. The 
enemy, fully aware of the dangers that surrounded them, 
were on the watch, and had made every preparation to re- 
ceive reinforcements from New York. Lord Sterling- dis- 
covered this, and deemed it unwise to risk his troops in 
battle. He therefore withdrew to New Jersey on the morn- 
ing of the 17th. 

20. The army encamped in New Jersey and in New Eng- 
land was now threatened by an evil almost as great as the 
famine which had endangered its existence in the beginning 
of the winter. The depi'eciation of paper money had become 
so great that the pay of a major-general was not sufficient to 
defray his daily expenses, and all the money a private re- 
ceived would not have paid for the shoes which he wore out 
on the march. The national Congress and the State Legisla- 
ture Avere slow to remedy this evil. Finally, a committee of 
Congress was apjjointed to inquire into the condition of the 
troops. This committee reported " that the army was unpaid 
for five months ; that it seldom had more than six days' pro- 
visions in advance, and was on several occasions for sundry 
successive days without meat; that it was destitute of forage; 
that the medical department had neither sugar, tea, choco- 
late, wine nor spirituous liquors of any kind ; that every de- 
partment Avas without money, and had not even the shadow 
of credit left ; and that the patience of the soldiers, borne 
■down by the presence of complicated sufferings, was on the 
point of being exhausted." 

21. The long course of suffering had produced a relaxation 
of discipline, and the discontents of the soldiery finally broke 
out in open mutiny. On the 25th of May two Connecticut 

20. How did tJie depreciation of paper money affect the array ? 
What is said of paying the soldiers ? What is said of provisions ? 

21. What effect had this suffering in camp? What effect had tliis 
revolt on Congress ? 



168 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

regiments paraded under arms, with a declaration that they 
would return home or obtain subsistence at the point of the 
bayonet. The soldiers of many other regiments, though not 
uniting with the mutineers, showed no disposition to suppress 
the mutiny. By great exertion on the part of officers, and 
the bringing up of a neighboring brigade of Pennsylvanians, 
the leaders were secured and the troops were persuaded to 
return to their camps. The temper of the troops alarmed 
Congress and the whole country, and ra-oused the people 
everywhere to strenuous efforts to supply the reasonable 
wants of the army. 

22. The story of these demonstrations in the camps, and 
the complaints of the people of New Jersey, who had fre- 
quently been called upon to divide their stores of provisions 
with the soldiers, had been greatly exaggerated and repeated 
to the British commander in New York. He was thus led 
to the belief that the American soldiers were ready to desert 
the cause of independence and the people of New Jersey to 
change their government. In order to take advantage of 
this feeling. General Knyphausen, with about 5000 men, was 
sent from Staten Island on the 6th of June. He landed at 
Elizabeth Point in the night, and early next morning marched 
toward Springfield by way of "Connecticut Farms." 

23. \Yashington had arranged with Governor Livingston 
to call out the State militia whenever occasion should require. 
On the appearance of this invading army the call to arms • 
was sent throughout the counties in the northern part of the 
State. The militia assembled with great alacrity, marched 
upon the flanks of the enemy's column and greatly impeded 

22. What deceived the Briti.sh commander in New York ? What 
expedition was sent out? 

23. What arrangement liad Wasliington made with Governor Liv- 
ingston ? How did the militia respond to the call to arms? Of what 
was the British general convinced? 



BURNING OF '^ CONNECTICUT FARMS." 169 

its progress. The number of the militia hourly increased, 
and the resistance they offered to the march of the enemy 
soon became so great as to convince the British general that 
he had been wholly misinformed as to the temper of the in- 
habitants of New Jersey. So far from being ready to sur- 
render their government, he found that they defended it with 
a spirit and determination that rendered the position of his 
army exceedingly dangerous. Knyphausen ordered his 
column to halt at "Connecticut Farms." Mortified and 
enraged by disappointment and the failure to accomplish his 
purpose, the enemy determined to take revenge on the de- 
fenceless village in which he had camped. 

24. " Connecticut Farms," with its church and parsonage, 
was reduced to ashes. Mrs. Caldwell, the wife of the Rev. 
James Caldwell,* remained quietly in her dwelling, sitting in 

* James Caldwell was born in Virginia in 1734. He graduated at 
Princeton College in 1759. In 1761 he was ordained by the Presby- 
tery of New Brunswick, and installed pastor of the First Presbyterian 
Church of Elizabeth. He was married in March, 1763, to Miss Han- 
nah Ogden of Newark, a lady whose piety and fortitude clieered and 
sustained her husband through many dark and trying scenes. At the 
beginning of the war he was appointed chaplain of the New Jersey 
brigade. In June, 1776, he joined Colonel Dayton's regiment on the 
northern lines. His popularity with the army and people in New 
Jersey was unbounded. His wisdom and talents were held in high 
esteem, and he was bitterly hated by every enemy of American liberty in 
the State. He was at home the night before the attack on " Connecticut 
Farms." Hearing that the enemy was approaching, he endeavored to 
persuade his wife to flee with him, but she would not go. Whilst 
drinking a cup of coffee in his saddle, he saw the enemy in the dis- 
tance, and, bidding his wife farewell, galloped away. He never saw 
her again alive. He was shot at Elizabeth Point on the 24th of No- 
vember, 1781, and died instantly. The soldier who shot him was a 
Jersey militiaman, supposed to have been bribed by the enemy. He 
was tried and executed for willful murder. 



24. Describe the destruction of " Connecticut Farms." 
15 



170 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

her room with an iufaut in her arms and surrounded by her 
children. A British soldier came to the window and dis- 
charged his musket at her. The ball passed through her 
bosom and she instantly expired. 

25. From the ruins of "Connecticut Farms" Knyphausen 
proceeded toward Springfield. The New Jersey brigade, 
under General Maxwell, and the militia that had joined it, 
took a strong position in front of Springfield, determined to 
defend it. Knyphausen halted in front of Maxwell's lines 
and camped during the night, but made no efforts to dislodge 
the Americans. Washington had drawn up his army early 
in the morning on which Kny2:)hausen had landed at Eliza- 
beth Point, and advanced to the Short Hills, in the rear of 
Springfield. Knyphausen, perceiving that he was in danger 
of being attacked by an overwhelming force, rapidly retired 
to his boats. He was closely followed by a detachment which 
attacked his outposts and annoyed his rearguard, 

26. The American army in the vicinity of the Hudson 
numbered 5580 Continental troops, only about 3000 of w'hom 
were eflTective soldiers. Sir Henry Clinton had now returned 
from the South, so that the strength of the enemy in New 
York was increased to 12,000 regulars, with an additional 
force of 4000 Tory militia. The British commander resolved 
to invade New Jersey, for the purpose of destroying the Ame- 
rican camps and stores at Morristown. He first made a de- 
monstration against West Point, in order to draw off Wash- 
ington's troops in that direction. On the morning of the 
23d of June he landed a force of 5000 infimtry and a large 
body of cavalry and artillery at Elizabeth, and took up his 
march toward Springfield. General Greene, whose camp was 
at Springfield, commanded two brigades of Continental troops 

25. What followed the destruction of "Connecticut Farms?" 
20. What was the relative strength of the American and British 
armies near New York ? What was undertaken ? 



BATTLE OF SPRINGFIELD. 171 

and the New Jersey militia. The greater part of Washing- 
ton's army had been directed to march slowly toward Pomp- 
ton. As soon as Washington learned of the movements of 
the enemy, he detached a brigade to hang on his right flank, 
and prepared himself to support General Greene. 

27. At Springfield, General Greene posted Major Lee on 
the Vauxhall road, on which the right column of the British 
was marching, and Colonel Dayton on the direct road to 
Springfield, to face the enemy's left. A detachment of 
Greene's artillery was posted to defend the bridge over the 
Railway, supported by Colonel Angel. Colonel Shreve, with 
his regiment, guarded a second bridge to cover the retreat of 
Colonel Angel's men. Major Lee's dragoons and the pickets 
under Captain Walker, supported by Colonel Ogden, defended 
the bridge on the Vauxhall road. The main body of the 
British troops was drawn up on high grounds in the rear of 
the town, with the militia on the flanks. 

28. As the enemy approached Springfield he opened an 
artillery fire on the Americans, which was answered by 
Colonel Angel's battery at Rahway bridge. The British 
attacked Lee on the Vauxhall road. He resisted the pas- 
sage of the bridge until a body of the enemy had forded the 
river above him and gained his flanks, when he withdrew his 
troops to avoid being surrounded. On the left, Colonel 
Angel maintained his ground until he was compelled to 
yield to superior numbers. He then retired in perfect order, 
bringing oft' his wounded men. Colonel Shreve, after covering 
Angel's retreat, rejoined his brigade on the hill. The British 
then took possession of the town, and immediately set it on 
fire. 

29. The stern resistance he had encountered, the gallantry 
and discipline of the Continental troops, the firmness dis- 

27. Describe the position taken at Springfield. 

28. Describe the battle of Springfield. 



172 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

played in the skirmishing, the strength of Greene's position, 
the spirit and luiiiihcrs of tlie New Jersey militia, together 
\vith the report that a formidable fleet and army were daily 
expected from France, induced Sir Henry Clinton to aban- 
don the further invasion of New Jersey. He therefore with- 
drew from Springfield, and on the same night returned to 
Staten Island. The conduct of the New Jersey brigade and 
of the State militia in this day's fighting was conspicuously 
noticed, and was honorably mentioned by the commander-in- 
chief. 

30. On the 10th of July the first division of the French 
army, which had been sent out to co-operate with Washing- 
ton, arrived at Newport, Rhode Island. General Washington 
visited Hartford in order to have an interview with the 
French commander and to arrange plans for the campaign. 
Whilst the commander-in-chief w'as absent from his camp on 
this business, Benedict Arnold attempted to surrender the 
military posts at West Point to the enemy. His treason was 
discovered and defeated, but the traitor fled to the British 
camp at New York before he could be arrested. 

ol. The spirit of the campaign in the South made it im- 
practicable to undertake any considerable movements in the 
Middle States. The close of the summer was spent in re- 
cruiting, and early in December the army went into winter 
quarters. The Pennsylvania troops, under General Wayne, 
were stationed near Morristown ; the New Jersey regulars en- 
camped at Porapton ; the New England troops near West 
Point, and the New York regiments at Albany. 

29. What induced the enemy to abandon the invasion ? What is 
said of the conduct of the New Jersey militia? 

80. When did the French army arrive, and where did it land? 
What treachery was attempted? 

31. Where did the army go into winter quarters? 



CHAPTER XVI. 

Revolt in Camp — End of the War — Contributions of the State 
and Sufferings of the Inhabitants. 




RUTOERS COLLEGE, NEW BRUNSWICK. . 

1. The year 1781, which closed in glorious triumph, 
opened with many gloomy prospects and disheartening cir- 
cumstances. The soldiers had served their country in many 
severe campaigns, almost without pay ; often without suffi- 
cient clothing to cover their shivering bodies or food to stay 
their hunger. Congress had sent promise after promise that 
relief would be afforded speedily, but the promises were un- 
fulfilled. The soldiers became dissatisfied, and finally, on 
the 1st of January, a body of Pennsylvania troops in the 
camp at Morristown i-esolved to march to Philadelphia and 
demand immediate justice from their representatives. 

2. General Wayne was in command of these troops, and 



Chapter XVI. — J. Wbnt occurred in tlie beginning of 1781? 
1,« 17:5 



174 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

every oue of the 1300 who had entered upon this desperate 
purpose dearly loved his general. He followed the men, and 
by persuasion and threats endeavored to bring them baek to 
his camp. They would not listen to his entreaties. Finally 
he threw himself in front of the column, drew his pistol and 
threatened to shoot the leaders if they did not face about and 
return to Morristown. The men instantly surrounded Wayne 
with their fixed bayonets, and, pointing their muskets at his 
heart, cried out, "General, we love and respect you; often 
have you led us into the field of battle, but Ave warn you to 
be on- your guard. If you fire your pistol or attempt to en- 
force your commands, we shall put you instantly to death." 
Brave Anthony Wayne still stood firm, not fearing harm at 
the hands of his own men. He appealed to their patriotism, 
reminded them of toils and sufferings already endured for 
the cause of American liberty, and begged them not to sacri- 
fice, in one rash moment, the honor and advantage they had 
gained by years of w^eary marches and terrible battles. He 
recited to them how the enemy would rejoice and how their 
friends would grieve over their conduct. 

3. The men replied by exhibiting their tattered garments 
and relating the story of their sufferings for want of food, 
and then repeated their determination to march to Philadel- 
phia and demand from Congress immediate redress. Find- 
ing himself unable to restrain the troops, Wayne resolved to 
accompany them, and at the same time sent orders to his 
quartermaster to send supplies after him, for he knew the 
men would soon need them. 

4. At Princeton the party was met by a committee from 
Congress, who promised that the just demands of the sol- 

2. Who commanded these troops? How did he endeavor to bring 
them back to camp? 

3. What answer did tlie soldiers make? 

4. How did tlie revolt terminate? 



SUPPRESSION OF THE REVOLT. 175 

diers should be granted. The men whose enlistment had 
expired were allowed to go home, and those whose term of 
service had not yet ended agreed to return to their camps. 

5. When intelligence of this revolt reached the British 
commander in New York, he despatched agents to Princeton 
to bribe the soldiers and persuade them to desert and join 
the enemy. But these troops seized the British emissaries 
and delivered them to General Wayne. They were tried 
by military commission, and condemned to be hung as 
spies. 

6. The success of the Pennsylvania regiments in obtaining 
redress of grievances stimulated part of the New Jersey 
troops to pursue the same course. On the night of the 20th 
of January, part of the brigade stationed at Pompton rose in 
arms and claimed the same privileges that had been granted 
to the Pennsylvanians. A body of 160 men marched to 
Chatham, where another brigade was stationed, and invited 
their comrades to revolt. 

7. General Washington had already discovered the danger 
of yielding to the violent demands of soldiers with arms in 
their hands, and therefore resolved upon severe measures to 
bring the mutineers to unconditional submission. He sent a 
detachment under General Howe, with orders to arrest the 
leaders and to bring them to punishment. Howe's troops 
arrived at Chatham early in the morning, and surrounded 
the camp of the revolters. Colonel Barber, of New Jersey, 
commanded the mutineers to parade without arms and to 
march to designated ground. They hesitated to obey, and 
Colonel Sprout was ordered to advance with his regiment 
and give them five minutes' time to comply with the com- 

5. What did the British commander do? 

0. What eflect liad the success of the Pennsylvanians on other troops ? 
What occurred at Pompton ? 

7. How was til is revolt suppressed ? 



176 IIISTOUT OF NEW JERSEY. 

niand of Colonel Barber. With fixed bayonets and leveled 
muskets on every side of them, they instantly laid down 
their arms and complied with the order. Three of the 
most active leaders were tried and executed on the spot. 

8. Sir Henry Clinton heard of the mutiny of the New 
Jersey troops, and despatched emissaries to offer them the 
same terms that had been offered to the Pennsylvaniaiis. 
He sent General Robertson, at the head of 3000 men, to 
Staten Island for the purpose of supporting the mutineers. 
The British emissaries, however, proved false to their com- 
mander, and delivered their papers, containing instructions 
and propositions, into the hands of Colonel Dayton, who com- 
manded the American outposts. 

9. These severe measures not only enforced discipline in 
the camps, but aroused the States to give immediate atten- 
tion to the w'ants of the soldiers. It was in this hour of 
gloom and extreme want that Robert Morris of Philadel- 
phia threw into the empty treasury of the nation his immense 
fortune and credit, which enabled the commanding general 
to clothe and feed his army, and to prepare for a vigorous 
campaign in the approaching summer. 

10. Washington and the French general. Count Rocham- 
beau, had agreed upon a plan to attack the enemy in New 
York. For this purpose the French troops were ordered 
from Newport late in June. But large reinforcements Avere 
received by the British commander, and Washington there- 
fore deemed it unwise to risk a battle. Word was received 
also that a large French fleet, commanded by Count de 
Grasse, would soon arrive in the Chesapeake bay. The 
American and French commanders therefore resolved upon 
transferring their armies to Virginia to co-operate with this 

8. What is said of the British emissaries? 

9. Wliat was the efltct of tliese severe measures? 
10. Wliat campaign was planned? 



THE MARCH TO WILLIAMSBURG. Ill 

fleet. The British general, Lord Cornwallis, had collected a 
large army at Yorktowu, in Virginia, and a British fleet was 
stationed at Gloucester Point, in the York river. 

11. Washington wrote letters, in which he gave instruc- 
tions for an attack upon New York, and made arrangements 
to allow these to be captured by the British scouts. He thus 
led Sir Henry Clinton to expect an assault upon the city. 
While the enemy labored under this deception, Washington's 
army and the French troops marched through the State of 
New Jersey, by way of Philadelphia, crossed the Delaware 
near that city, and thence through Pennsylvania and Mary- 
land, and arrived at Williamsburg, in Virginia, on the 14th 
of September. It is recorded of this march that such was 
the discipline and order of the French troops that in passing 
a distance of 500 miles through a country abounding in fruit 
not a peach or an apple was taken without leave of the com- 
missioned oflicers. 

12. Count de Grasse had arrived in the Chesapeake with 
his fleet late in August, and General La Fayette had fortified 
a camp on James river. La Fayette had informed De Grasse 
of the position of the enemy, and upon the arrival of General 
Washington and Count Rochambeau, laid before them a care- 
ful description of the country and the approaches to the 
British camp. The whole French fleet was now concentrated 
at the mouth of the Chesapeake, and the British fleet, from 
New York, upon reaching the southern coast, stood to sea 
outside the harbor. A naval engagement occurred on the 
5th of September with part of the enemy's fleet, but no 
advantage was gained on either side. 

13.. On the night of the 6th of October the combined Amer- 
ican and French armies surrounded the camp of Lord Cornwal- 

11. How did Washington deceive Clinton? Describe the raarcli to 
Williamsburg. 

12. What great commanders met on the James? 



178 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

lis at Yorktown. They jirosecuted the siege with great vigor. 
'J'he officers and soldiers of France and America vied with 
each other in conrage and skill. A series of battles, extend- 
ing through thirteen days, was fought with great spirit, until 
almost every gun on the enemy's fortifications was dismounted 
and the batteries were prostrated. On the 19th, Lord Corn- 
wallis surrendered his army with the arms and munitions of 
war to Washington, and the ships and seamen to Count de 
Grasse. The total number of prisoners exceeded 7000 men. 
During the siege. Sir Henry Clinton had arrived outside of 
the harbor with 7000 troops and 25 ships, but finding it im- 
possible to break through the French lines, he returned to 
New^ York. 

14. The capture of Cornwallis crushed the British power 
in America. Praise and thanksgiving went up to the Lord 
Omnipotent from every family altar where the love of lib- 
erty dwelt. In every church, in legislative halls, in the 
army and in Congress, the voice of the people was heard in 
prayer. The dark clouds of war which had hung over the 
States during seven years now began to break away, and 
peace dawned in the horizon of the new-born nation. 

15. Count de Grasse sailed for the West Indies. A de- 
tachment of Washington's army, under General Wayne, 
marched to the aid of General Greene in the Carolinas. 
The French troops remained in Virginia, and the Eastern 
regiments returned to New York and New^ Jersey, under the 
command of General Lincoln. 

16. In Great Britain the people now began to clamor for 
peace. Strong resolutions were adopted by Parliament in 

13. Describe the siege of Yorktown. 

14. What was tlie efTect of this victory ? How was the news re- 
ceived ? 

15. What disposition was made of tlie troops ? 

16. Wliat occurred in England ? 



THE MURDER OF CAPTAIN HUDDY. 179 

1782, requiring the king and his ministry to bring the war 
to a close ; and on the 14th of March the House of Commons 
dechired by a vote that those Avho should advise or attempt 
a further prosecution of an offensive war on the American 
continent were enemies to his majesty and the country. A 
new ministry was formed, and the British commanders in 
America were notified that negotiations for peace were about 
to be entered upon. 

17. NotAvithstanding these measures, a spirit of hostility 
still dwelt in the bosom of the Tories in and about New 
York. The traitor Benedict Arnold had been commissioned 
an officer in the British army, and at the head of troops com- 
posed of men of like character made frequent incursions into 
New Jersey, and inflicted most barbarous cruelties upon the 
inhabitants. 

18. On the 2d of April, 1782, a party of these Tories 
attacked the blockhouse on Tom river, commanded by Cap- 
tain Joshua Huddy. The little garrison gallantly defended 
the post until it was overpowered by superior numbers and 
captured. The captain was taken to New York and impris- 
oned, and on the 12th he was carried by a party of Tories to 
Middletown Heights, where, without trial, he Avas hung. 
Huddy was a man of extraordinary bravery, and met his 
cruel fate with fortitude and perfect composure. He wrote 
his will in a clear, steady hand on the head of the barrel 
from which he was to be executed. 

19. Washington wrote to Sir Henry Clinton at New York 
that unless these murderers were surrendered he would re- 
taliate by the execution of some of the British officers in his 
hands. The demand was refused, and Captain Asgill was 

17. Who invaded New Jersey? 

18. What occurred on Tom river? What is said of Captain Huddy? 

19. What notice did Washington t.ake of tliis murder? What reply 
did the British commander make ? 



180 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

desio-uated by lot to expiate the death of Captain Huddy. 
Meanwhile, however, the British commander had organized 
a court-martial to examine into the affiiir. It was found that 
the murder of Huddy had been perpetrated under instruc- 
tions from Governor Franklin, who was now in New York, 
and was president of the "Associated Loyalists," as the 
Tories there called themselves. Sir Guy Carleton, who now 
commanded on Manhattan Island, gave orders for the disso- 
lution of the society of "Associated Loyalists;" and assured 
General Washington that these outrages would not be re- 
peated. Asgill was then released. 

20. Preliminary articles of peace were signed on the 30th 
of November, 1782, to take efiect on the 20th of January, 
1783. On the 15th of April the return of peace was pub- 
licly celebrated at Trenton. On the 19th — the eighth anni- 
versary of the battle at Lexington — a proclamation, declaring 
the cessation of hostilities, was read to the troops, and on the 
3d of November the army was disbanded. The enemy was 
allowed ample time to collect his troops and materials of war, 
and to embark them for England. The British were finally 
removed from New York on the 25th of November, 1783. 
Washington took leave of his soldiers and officers in New 
York on the 4th of December, and proceeded to Annapo- 
lis, where, on the 23d of that month, he surrendered his 
commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental army 
to Congress, and then quietly retired to private life. 

21. During the eight years of war, from 1775 to 1783, 
New Jersey furnished 10,726 soldiers to the army. This, 

20. When were articles of peace signed? How was tlie news re- 
ceived? When was the army disbanded? When did the British 
finally leave New York? When did Washington resign his com- 
niission ? 

21. How many troops did New Jersey furnisli during the war? 
What other contributions were made? 



OUTRAGES OF TORIES. 181 

however, was the smallest part of the contribution of the in- 
habitants to the cause of liberty. The State several times 
became the public highway of marching armies. It was 
almost the permanent camping-ground for divisions of the 
Continental troops, was in constant fear of invasion, and was 
frequently overrun by detachments of the enemy. The main 
body of Washington's army camped three winters on its 
highlands, and drew upon the inhabitants for supplies until 
almost every family was reduced to extreme destitution, 
leaving barely enough to sustain life. 

22. In addition to this drain upon their resources, the 
State was preyed upon by associations of Tories, freebooters 
and robbers, who inflicted the most barbarous cruelties 
upon all the inhabitants, disregarding public or social posi- 
tion, age and sex. Movable property was carried away, 
dwellings were sacked, villages were burned, men were shot 
down in the fields and on the highways, young girls and 
aged women Avere outraged in their own homes and mur- 
dered in cold blood. 

23. The inhabitants of the northern part of the State for 
years could not enjoy an hour of exemption from the fear of 
these marauding hordes. The frequent incursions of the 
enemy kept the State militia almost constantly under arms, 
so that there was scarcely time or labor to sow the fields or 
to gather the harvests. The State might therefore with pro- 
priety have been regarded as the battle-field of the nation, 
rather than as a source of supplies for the army. 

24. Though the war had absorbed the strength of the 
people, there was nevertheless kept alive amid scenes of car- 
nage a desire to cultivate the arts of peace. As soon, there- 

22. Describe the sufferings of the people. 

23. What occurred in the northern part of the State? 

24. What followed the close of the war? Wliat institutions were 
established? 

16 



182 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

fore, as the war ended, many unfinished enterprises, suddenly 
arrested by the call to arms, were resumed. The institutions 
of learning at New Bi'unswick are conspicuous illustrations 
of this fact. George III. chartered Queen's College in 1770. 
The charter was granted to " such Protestants as had adopted 
the constitution of the Reformed churches in the Nether- 
lands." The Dutch Reformed Church held a convention in 
New York in 1771, and resolved to establish a theological 
seminary at New Brunswick. This was the first institution 
of its kind in America. 

25. The struggle for American liberty which had already 
begun, and the war for independence that so speedily fol- 
lowed, demanded the whole strength of the people. All 
civil projects were deferred until the Avar should be brought 
to an end. The theological seminary was not formally 
opened until the year 1784. In 1825 the name of the col- 
lege was changed to Rutgers College. The two instituions 
were partially united, and provided with an able corps of 
instructors. From that time they grew in strength and in- 
fluence, and are now among the most successful schools in 
the country. 

25. What is said of these institutions? 



CHAPTER XVII. 

The Constitution of the United States Adopted. 

v:i' I i,!ih 




EMBLEMS OF THE NATION. 



1. The war for independeuce had now closed. With peace 
came the labor of laying the foundation of a new nation. 
The toils of the statesman began where those of the soldier 
had ended. The efforts of the army closed in triumph, it 
was now the duty of statesmen to preserve, in constitutional 
law, the principles of personal and national liberty wrenched 
from the monarchies of Europe and successfully defended by 
the swords of the patriots. The establishment of a govern- 
ment, to be administered by the people and for the people, 
was the task imposed by the victory of our arms. 

2. At the beginning of the war necessity had forced a 
hasty union of the colonies. Their regiments and brigades 
were united into an army, commanded by Continental officers. 

Chapter XVII. — 1. What had the patriots accomplished, and what 
was yet to be acliieved ? 

183 



184 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

and were led against the common enemy ; but the great work 
of constructing a nation that should have power over the sev- 
eral colonies which by the successful issue of the struggle had 
become independent States, had not yet been undertaken. 

3. The limited authority of Congress became still more in- 
significant upon the establishment of peace. There was no- 
where a guiding power to lead the people up to the full real- 
ization of the fruits of their victory, nor to direct them in the 
construction of a representative government, under whose 
supreme control the States might become free republics, 
bound by a uniform system into a great nation, strong to 
develop the resources of the continent and powerful to defend 
the rights of its people in all parts of the world. 

4. The wisdom that had prevailed in council and triumphed 
in the field was again brought into harmonious action. A 
convention was called to meet at Annapolis,* Maryland, Sep- 
tember 17, 1786, which agreed that another convention should 
be called to meet in Philadelphia, for the purpose of consid- 
ering what changes should be made in the Articles of Con- 
federation adopted in 1776 for the government of the States 
during the war. The representatives for New Jersey in the 
Philadelphia convention were — David Brearley, William 
C. Houston, William Patterson, William Livingston, Abra- 
ham Clark and Jonathan Dayton. 

5. The convention assembled on May 10, 1787, and sat 
in the room which had been occuj)ied by Congi-essf when 

* Tlie New Jersey commissioners were — William C. Houston, Abra- 
ham Clark and James Sclirereman. 

t The Continental Congress assembled at Princeton, June 30, 1783, 
and at Trenton, November 1, 1784. 

2. What had been done at the beginning of the war? What had 
not been undertaken ? 

3. What was needed ? 

4. What was done to organize the government? 



CONVENTION IN PHILADELPHIA. 185 

the Declaration of Independence was adopted. Delegates 
were present from all the States except New Hampshire and 
Rhode Island. Washington was chosen president of the con- 
vention. He was surrounded by many great and good men, 
who desired nothing so much as the glory of their country 
and the w^elfare of the people. The delegates soon discov- 
ered that the Articles of Confederation were so defective and 
limited in their power that it would be useless to endeavor 
to adapt them to the wants of the nation. They resolved 
therefore to enter at once upon the work of framing a new 
constitution. 

6. Several plans of government were presented by the 
delegates from the different States, and there Avas great 
diversity of opinion among the best and wisest men in the 
convention. A number of days had been spent in discus- 
sion, and many began to fear that the members would sep- 
arate without accomplishing anything. Finally, some one 
proposed an adjournment, but at this crisis Benjamin Frank- 
lin rose and said : " IVIr. President : How has it happened 
that while groping so long in the dark, divided in our opin- 
ions, and now about to separate without accomplishing the 
great object of our meeting here, we have hitherto not once 
thought of humbly applying to the Father of lights to illu- 
minate our understandings ? In the beginning of our contest 
with Great Britain, when all were sensible of danger, we 
had daily prayers in this room for divine jjrotection. Our 
prayers, sir, were heard and graciously answered." He then 
offered a resolution that, "henceforth, prayers, imploring the 
assistance of Heaven and its blessings on our deliberations, 
be had in this assembly every morning before we proceed to 
business." 

5. When and where did the convention assemble ? What was dis- 
covered ? 

6. How did the work progress? Wliat did Franklin propose? 

1(5 « 



186 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

7. The suggestion was iid(_)pted, and the clergy of the city 
were invited to officiate. From that day there was greater 
harmony in the convention ; and, guided by Divine wisdom, 
the delegates soon agreed upon articles of government, which 
were adopted on the 17th of September, and subsequently, 
having been ratified by the people, became the Constitution 
of the nation. 

8. The Articles of Confederation, and with them the Con- 
tinental Congress, expired on the 4th of March, 1789, and 
the Constitution of the United States became the or- 
ganic law of the nation. On the 6th of April of the same 
year. General Washington was elected the first President 
of the United States. He was then at his home at Mount 
A^ernon, Virginia, but having been again called to serve his 
country, Avent to New York, the place appointed for the 
meeting of the new Congress, and there, ^in the presence of 
a vast assembly took the oath of office on the 30th of 
April, 1789. 

9. Congress gave its attention to the organization of the 
national government, and the inhabitants of the several 
States, relieved from the excitement of public affairs, devoted 
themselves to the development of the resources of the country. 
Eoads were opened between widely-separated settlements, 
churches were organized, schools were established, factories 
were erected, trade and commerce were extended, and the 
people, speedily recovering from the effects of the war, be- 
came prosperous and happy. 

7. What was the cflect of prayer? Wlien was the Constitution of 
the United States adopted? 

8. When did the Confederation end and tiie United Slates begin ? 
Who was the first President ? When was he eU'cted ? Wiien and 
where was lie inangurated? 

9. Wiiat did Congress do? What did tlie {ie()i)ic do? 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

Tlie State Government Organized. 




GOVERNOR tlVINGSTON'S MANSION. 



1. The lirst Constitution of the State of New Jersey was 
adopted by the Provincial Congress at Burlington on the 
2d of July, 1776. It provided that members for the first Leg- 
islature should be chosen on the second Tuesday of August, 
1776, and thereafter on the second Tuesday of October of 
each year. The Legislature was to convene on the second 
Tuesday after the election. This constitution received the 
general sanction of the people, who observed and enforced its 
provisions. 

2. The first election was held on the appointed day, and 



Chaptee XVIII. — 1. When was the first State Constitution 
adopted ? What were some of its provisions ? 

187 



188 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the members chosen met in General Assembly at Princeton on 
the 27th of August. Two days after the opening of the ses- 
sion both houses of the Legislature — the Council and the 
Assembly — were organized. John Stevens Avas chosen vice- 
president of the council, and John Hart was elected speaker 
of the house. On the 31st of August, the two houses, having 
met in joint ballot, elected William Livingston governor of 
the State. A committee w-as appointed to devise a public 
seal, and until that could be made it Avas ordered that the 
private seal of Governor Livingston should be used as the 
great seal of the commonwealth. 

3. On the loth of September, Governor Livingston deliv- 
ered his first address to the Legislature. He stated clearly 
and forcibly the questions at issue in the war between Eng- 
land and America, strongly endorsed the action of the Conti- 
nental Congress and the Declaration of Independence, and 
closed with the following exhortation : " Let us, then, as it is 
our indispensable duty, make it our invariable aim to exhibit 
to our constituents the brightest examples of a disinterested 
love for the commonweal. Let us, both by precept and ex- 
ample, encourage the spirit of economy, industry and patriot- 
ism, and that public integrity and righteousness that cannot 
fail to exalt a nation, setting our faces at the same time like 
a flint against that dissoluteness of manners and political cor- 
ruption that will ever be the reproach of any people. May 
the foundation of our infant State be laid in virtue and the 
fear of God, and the superstructure will rise glorious and 
endure for ages!" The Assembly replied to this address, 
endorsing the moral and patriotic sentiments expressed by 
the governor. 

4. In order to perfect the organization of the government, 

2. When was the first election lield ? What is said of the first Legis- 
lature? Who was elected the first governor? 

3. Wlial is said of tlie governor's address? 



THE STATE MILITIA ORGANIZED. 189 

the Legislature elected John de Hart chief justice of the 
State, Samuel Tucker second justice, and Francis Hopkinson 
third justice. William Patterson, was appointed attorney- 
general ; Bowes Reed, clerk of supreme court ; Charles Petit, 
secretary of state, and Richard Smith, treasurer. An act 
was passed to establish courts of justice, and other measures 
nef^essary for the complete organization of the government 
were adopted. 

5. The second meeting of the Legislature was opened at 
Burlington on the 13th of November. It was at this time 
that all the terrors of the first British invasion chilled the 
heart of every patriot in the land. The enemy had already 
established himself in New York, and the American army 
was slowly retiring southward from the Hudson. In this 
hour of gloom, when the American cause was meeting with 
defeat and disaster in every field, the Legislature of New 
Jersey gave its full attention to the organization of the mili- 
tia of the State and to recruiting for the Continental army 
the full quota of troops required by Congress. A bill was 
passed providing for the raising of four battalions. 

6. The retreat of Washington's army through the State 
and the rapid advance of the enemy brought the session of 
the Legislature to a sudden end. Provisions for the support 
of the government were hastily made, and on the 2d of De- 
cember both houses adjourned to meet again on the 18th of 
January, 1777. 

7. Washington's victories at Trenton and Princeton, near 
the close of the year, again aroused the hopes of the Ameri- 

4. What State officers were elected ? 

5. Wlien and where was tlie second session of the •Legislature held? 
What was the condition of the country ? 

6. How was tiie session ended ? 

7. What effect had the victories at Trenton and Princeton on the 
people? Wiicre did the Legislature meet ? • 



190 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

cans. The timid inhabitants, who had been forced into sub- 
mission by the presence of the enemy, now took courage. 
The base and treacherous men who had given aid and com- 
fort to the public enemy were compelled to withdraw from 
the State, and the large majority of the people, who had 
held fast to the cause they had espoused, were now filled 
with hope for a speedy deliverance from the hand of the op- 
pressor. The action of the State authorities was immedi- 
ately resumed, and the Legislature was summoned to meet 
at Pittstown on the 22d of January, 1777. The governor 
congratulated the members on the great success of the Amer- 
ican armies in the State, and declared that there was no 
reason to be dispirited in the contest unless the people and 
government were wanting to themselves. 

8. Before the houses had entered fairly upon business it 
was rumored that the enemy was marching southward. The 
Legislature therefore adjourned to Haddonfield on the 29th 
of January. At this session Robert Morris was appointed 
chief justice, Isaac Smith second justice, and John Cleves 
Symmes third justice, in place of Hopkinson, who had been 
chosen a member of the Continental Congress. The Legisla- 
ture found great difficulty in framing a militia law, that 
would ensure an armed force for the defence of the State, 
and at the same time respect the rights of the very large 
class of citizens who, from conscientious scruples, could not 
engage in war. The bill provided that all able-bodied men 
should be eni-olled, and that those whose religious obliga- 
tions prevented them from entering the army might pay 
a sum of money to be released from actual service. 

9. An act was passed establishing a council of safety, to 
consist of twelve members, who, with the governor, were 

8. To what place did the Legislature adjourn ? What was done at 
this session ? 

9. Who were authorized to govern the State in times of invasion? 



THE COUNCIL OF SAFETY. 391 

vested with power and authority to administer the aflliirs of 
the State in times of invasion, or wlien it was impracticable 
to call a session of the Legislature. This body was clothed 
w^ith almost unlimited power. It might order the arrest of 
suspicious and dangerous persons in the State, correspond 
with Congress and with other States, and transact any busi- 
ness necessary for the public good. It could call out the 
militia to resist invasion or to suppress insurrection, and do 
whatever, in the judgment of the governor and the council of 
safety, might be necessary to protect the inhabitants in their 
lives and property. 

10. A bill was passed for the support of the government, 
which provided that the pay of the governor should be 
£600 per annum, that of the chief justice £300, of the third 
justice £200, and of the attorney-general £40. Each dele- 
gate in Congress was to receive twenty shillings a day, each 
member of the State council ten shillings, and each member 
of the Assembly eight shillings. 

11. After a shoi't recess the Legislature reconvened at 
Haddonfield on the 7th of May, 1777. At this session 
severe penalties were enacted for the punishment of all per- 
sons who should in any way give aid to the enemy. In lay- 
ing before the house the conduct of the Tories and banditti 
in the northern counties. Governor Livingston said: "They 
are resolved to contaminate the British name by every spe- 
cies of infamy, rather than abandon their purpose of enslaving 
a free and unoffending people." 

12. The governor and council of safety were authorized to 
arrest and imprison as many persons known to be disaffected 
in the State as might be thought sufficient to induce the 
enemy to release such of the patriotic citizens as had been 

10. Name the salaries of public officers? 

11. What did Governor Livingston say of the Tories? 

12. What was the governor and council of safety authorized to do ? 



192 HISTORY OF NUW JERSEY. 

kidnapped and carried oft'; also to arrest and imprison all 
suspicious persons. An act was passed confiscating the per- 
sonal estates of all who had deserted to the enemy, unless 
they should Avithiu a stated period return and renew their 
allegiance to the State. This induced many who had 
already become sensible of their error, and Avho had been 
deceived by the enemy, to petition to be restored to citizen- 
ship. The Legislature adjourned on the 7th of June. 

13. When the members again convened at Haddonfield 
on the 3d of September, Governor Livingston congratulated 
them on the victory of the Americans at Bennington and on 
the successful resistance made against the march of General 
Burgoyne's army down the Hudson. The efforts of the Leg- 
islature at this session were devoted to raising money to de- 
fray the expenses of the State and to the remodeling of the 
militia law. An act was passed continuing the council of 
safety, and authorizing them to give relief to officers and 
privates of the militia who had been disabled in public 
service, and to the widows of those who had been killed. 
An act for the punishment of high treason prescribed that 
Avhen any one should be convicted the punishment should be 
the same as in the case of murder. On the 24th of Septem- 
ber the Legislature adjourned to meet on the 29th of the 
same month at Princeton. 

14. Members for a new Legislature were chosen on the 
14th of October, 1777, and it convened on the 28th of the 
same month. The houses organized by the re-election of the 
old officers, and on the 1st of November AVilliam Livingston 
was unanimously re-elected governor. Events of the utmost 
importance to the State and to the whole country were now 

13. What important acts were passed by the Legislature at Haddon- 
field? 

14. How was the State government organized? What important 
events were transpiring? 



THE ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION. 193 

taking place. The British had successfully invaded Penn- 
sylvania from the south, and had entered Philadelphia. De- 
tachments were thrown across the Delaware to protect the 
foraging parties of the enemy that scoured the lower counties. 
As an offset to these misfortunes, the northern army had 
captured the splendid army of the enemy commanded by 
Purgoyne. The efforts of the government were devoted 
chieHy to preparing for a vigorous campaign in the opening 
of the following year, when the British Avere to be driven 
from the State. The enemy took up his winter quarters 
in Philadelphia, and the American army was at Valley 
Forge. 

15. On the 15th of November the Continental Congress 
had perfected a plan for the perpetual union of the thirteen 
States into a confederacy, under the name of the United 
States of America. This plan was sent to the several 
States to receive their sanction. It was submitted to the 
Legislature of New Jersey on the 14th of December. The 
early adjournment prevented immediate action on this mat- 
ter, but on the 26th of February, 1778, the articles were 
read and entered upon the journal, and on the 25th of 
March committees were appointed to consider the subject 
and make report thereon. These reported the result of 
their deliberations to the Legislature on the 15th of June. 
The whole subject had been carefully considered, and sev- 
eral important alterations were recommended. These were 
adopted by the Legislature and forwarded to the Continental 
Congress. Other changes had been recommended by the dif- 
ferent States. Congress, however, rejected all these, and 
adopted the Articles of Confederation as they had been orig- 
inally sent out. 

15. What had the Continental Congress perfected ? How were these 
articles received by the Legislature? 

17 N 



194 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

16. The members of the Legislature elected in October, 
1778, met at Trenton on the 27th of that month, and organ- 
ized by reappointing the old officers. Governor Livingston 
was also re-elected. The first act of this session was the 
ratification of the Articles of Confederation ; the delegates in 
Congress were instructed to sign them. It was to this Legis- 
latui-e that the petition from the New Jersey troops and the 
letter from General Maxwell were sent, and the labor of j^ro- 
viding remedies for the extreme wants of the soldiers consti- 
tuted the chief work of both houses until their adjournment. 

17. The Continental Congress had called upon the several 
States to raise by taxation large sums of money to pay the 
expenses of the war. This subject Avas brought before the 
Legislature of New Jersey in May, 1779. An act was then 
passed to raise the sum of £1,000,000, which Avas to be col- 
lected and paid into the treasury before the 1st of Decem- 
ber of that year. Of this sum, £401,250 were to be paid to 
Congress. The balance was reserved for the use of the State 
government. 

18. The legislation during this and the two following years 
was given up almost wholly to schemes for raising money 
to defray the war expenses of the State and to contribute 
to the general fund demanded l)y the Continental Congress. 

19. On the 4th of May, 1782, the act of the British Par- 
liament to enable the king to conclude a peace with the 
United States was brought before the Legislature. A reso- 
lution was adopted which declared "that the power of the 
State of New Jersey should be exerted to enable Congress to 
support the national independence of America ; and that who- 
ever attempted any pacification between the States and Great 

Ifi. What is said of the legislation of 1778? 

17. What did Congress ask of the States? 

18. What occupied the attention of the Legislature? 

19. What action was taken on the proposition for peace? 



ABDItl^SS OF GOVERNOR LIVINGSTON. 195 

Britain, implying the least subordination or dependence of 
the United States to or upon Great Britain, ought to be 
treated as an open and avowed enemy ; and that, although 
peace upon honorable terms is an object truly desirable, yet 
war, with all the calamities attending it, is incomparably 
preferable to national dishonor and vassalage ; that the Leg- 
islature will maintain, support and defend the sovereign in- 
dependence of these States, and will exert the power therein 
to enable Congress to prosecute the war until the independ- 
ence of these United States shall be fully established." 

20. William Livingston was annually re-elected governor 
by the Legislature. When the termination of the war was 
celebrated throughout the State on the 19th of May, 1783, 
he delivered an address to the Legislature, in which he said : 
"Perhaps at no particular moment during our conflict with 
Great Britain was there ever a greater necessity than at the 
present juncture for unanimity, vigilance and exertion. The 
glory we have acquired in the war will be resounded through 
the universe. God forbid that we should ever tarnish it by 
any unworthy conduct in times of peace. We have estab- 
lished our character as a brave people, and exhibited to the 
world the most incontestable proofs that we are determined 
to sacrifice both life and fortune in defence of our liberties. 
Let us now show ourselves worthy of the inestimable bless- 
ings of freedom by an inflexible attachment to public faith 
and national honor. Let us establish our character as a 
sovereign State on the only durable basis of impartial and 
universal justice." 

21. Upon the return of peace the Legislature gave its 
attention to the thorough organization of the government, to 
the support of public improvements, to the establishment of 

20. What is said of Governor Livingston? What advice did he 



Mve 



21. To what did the Legislature give its attention? 



196 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

schools for the education of the people, and to the encourage- 
ment of the inhabitants in the development of the agricul- 
tural and mineral resources of the State. 

22. The new Constitution of the United States, framed by 
the convention at Philadelphia in 1787, was submitted to 
the Legislature of New Jersey on the 26th of October of that 
vear. On the 30th of October the Legislature passed a reso- 
lution which provided for the holding of a general election 
on the fourth Tuesday of November, to choose three persons 
from each county to serve as delegates in a State convention, 
to take action on the proposed Constitution. 

23. This convention assembled in December, and on the 
18th of that month unanimously ratified the Constitution 
of the United States. The convention also resolved that the 
State should offer a district of land, not exceeding ten 
miles square, for the seat of government of the United 
States. New Jersey was the third State that ratified the 
Constitution. 

24. The proceedings of the State convention were submitted 
to the Legislature on the 28th of August, 1788. Governor 
Livingston, who had for twelve years administered the 
affliirs of the government, accompanied these proceedings 
with a communication, in which he congratulated the peo- 
ple on the early and unanimous ratification of the national 
Constitution, and said: "We are now arrived to that au- 
spicious period which I confess I have often wished that 
it might please Heaven to protract my life to see. Thanks 
to God that I have lived to see this day !" 

25. This venerable patriot had, with eminent skill, per- 

22. When was the National Constitution laid before the Legislature ? 

23. How and when was the Constitution of tlie United States rati- 
fied? What otiier action was taken in the con%'ention ? 

24. How did Governor Livingston submit tliese proceedings to the 
Legislature? 



SEAT OF GOVERNMENT FIXED. 197 

formed the duties of his office during the difficult and peril- 
ous years of the war. He had assisted in framing the plan 
for the general government, and used his powerful influence 
in favor of its adoption. And now, in the fulfillment of his 
hopes and as the full reward of his services, he witnessed the 
attainment of the independence of the American people and 
the establishment of the National Union. He died on the 
25th of July, 1790.* 

26. At the session of the Legislature in November, 1788, 
Jonathan Elmer f and William Paterson J were chosen United 

* William Livingston was born in New York, 1723, graduated at 
Yale College in 1741, was early in life distinguished as a lawyer, re- 
moved to New Jersey before the opening of the Revolutionary strug- 
gle, and was in 1774 chosen a member of the first Continental Congress. 
He was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, was gov- 
ernor of New Jersey during all the years of the Revolution, and was a 
member of the convention that framed the Constitution of the United 
States. Governor Livingston was one of the purest patriots named in 
American history. He lived to see his country established an inde- 
pendent nation, and then died at his mansion near Elizabeth. 

f Jonatlian Elmer, one of the first Senators from New Jersey, was 
born in Cumberland county, 1745, was liberally educated in medicine 
and law, was a member of the Philosophical Society — the friend and 
associate of Benjamin Franklin. He was one of the most earnest de- 
fenders of the American cause, was a member of the New Jersey Vigi- 
lance Committee, and of the committee that framed the first State con- 
stitution. He was during the war a member of Congress, and afterward 
a Senator of the United States. His ancestors are distinguished in the 
annals of America for their devotion to the cause of religion and human 
rights, and his life of public service added lustre to the name. 

J William Paterson was born in 1745, graduated at the College of 
New Jersey 1763, and was admitted to practice law 1769. He was a 
member of the State convention that adopted the constitution in 1776, 

25. What is said of Governor Livingston ? 

26. When were United States Senators first chosen ? When was the 
seat of government established at Trenton ? 

17 » 



198 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

States Senators, and provision was made for the election of 
members of Congress. By an act passed on the 25th of 
November, 1790, the seat of the State government was per- 
manently established at Trenton. 

27. By the constitution of 1776 the political power of the 
commonwealth was divided into three departments — the leg- 
islative, the executive and the judicial. The legislative 
power was vested in a Council and Assembly, to be chosen by 
the qualified voters on the second Tuesday and Wednesday 
of October. The Legislative Council consisted of a governor 
and a member from each county, elected annually. The 
Assembly was composed of delegates from each county, 
apportioned to the number of the population. The execu- 
tive power was vested in a governor, who was annually 
elected by the Council and Assembly, in joint convention, 
at their first session. The secretary of state and the treas- 
urer were also chosen by the Legislature. The judiciary 
power was vested in a court of appeals, court of chancery, 
supreme and circuit courts, courts of oyer and terminer and 
general jail delivery, courts of common pleas, quarter ses- 
sions and orphans' courts, and courts held by justices of 
the peace for the trial of small cases. The judges of the 
supreme court were elected by the Legislature, and held 
their ofiices during seven years. Judges of the inferior 

and also of the national convention that formed the Constitntion of the 
United States. He was a firm supporter of tlie American cause during 
the llevolutionary struggle — was one of the first Senators of the United 
States chosen by New Jersey. In 1791 he was elected governor of the 
State, and three years later was appointed a judge of the Supreme 
Court of the United States. In 1799 he revised the laws of the State. 
He died in 180G. 

27. How was the political power of the State divided ? How was 
the Legislature organized? How was the governor elected? What 
courts were established ? How were the justices chosen ? 



TREATMENT OF THE INDIANS. 199 

courts and justices of the peace were chosen for five 
years. 

28. The last remnant of the Indian tribes left this State in 
1802. The Indian titles had been extinguished by a treaty 
made at Crosswicks in 1758, with the exception of the right 
of fishing in all rivers and bays, and of hunting on all unen- 
closed grounds. A tract of three thousand acres was pur- 
chased at Edge Billock, in Burlington county, for the resi- 
dence of the Indians remaining in the State. About sixty 
persons lived there until 1802, when they removed to New 
Stockbridge, New York, and thence to Statesburg, near Green 
Bay, Michigan. These Indians, in order to provide them- 
selves with agricultural implements, petitioned the Legisla- 
ture in 1832 for the sum of $3000, in consideration of the re- 
linquishment of all their rights in the State. The sum named 
was promptly granted by the Legislature. 

29. Hon. Samuel L. Southard,* in presenting this claim 
before the legislative committee, said : "It is a proud fact in 
the history of New Jersey that every footstep of her soil has 
been acquired from the Indians by fair and voluntary pur- 
chase and transfer — a fact that no other State of the Union, 
not even the land which bears the name of Penn, can boast 
of." In gratefully acknowledging the receipt of this money, 

* Samuel L. Southard, son of a distinguished citizen of New Jersey, 
was born in Baskingridge, 1787, was educated in the law, and early 
gained distinction in his profession. At the age of twenty-eight he was 
placed on the Supreme Court bench of the State, and in 1821 was elected 
a Senator of the United States. In 1823 he was appointed Secretary of 
the Ni^vy by President Monroe, and was subsequently reappointed by 
President Adams. At the close of this administration he was appointed 
attorney-general of the State, and afterward was twice sent to the United 
States Senate. He died in 1842. 

28. How and when was the Indian title extinguislied ? 

29. How were the Indians treated? 



200 HISTORY OF NFW JERSEY. 

the chief, Bartholomew S. Calvin * (known as Schawriskhe- 
hung, or Wilted Grass), on March 12, wrote: "Not a drop 
of our blood have you spilt in battle — not an acre of our 
land have you taken but by our consent." This just treat- 
ment of the original occupants of the soil was rewarded with 
the enjoyment of perpetual peace by the early settlers. 

* Bartholomew S. Calvin, an Indian of pure blood, was educated at 
Princeton at the expense of the Scotch Missionary Society. At the 
commenceraent of hostilities in the Avar for Independence, being then in 
his twenty-third year, he left his studies, shouldered his musket and 
fought against the common enemy. At the presentation of the petition 
by him on behalf of his people he was eighty years old. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

The Constitution of the State of New Jersey. 




STATE HOUSE, TRENTON. 

1. The convention to revise the Constitution of the State 
of New Jersey met at Trenton on the 14th day of May, 
1844, and having agreed upon the provisions to be submitted 
to the people for adoption, adjourned on the 29th day of 
June. 

2. The preamble of this constitution expresses the gratitude 
of the people of the State to Almighty God for civil and 
religious liberty, and reliance on Divine power for blessings 
to all succeeding generations. 

3. The first article declares that all men are by nature 
free and independent ; that no person shall be deprived of 

Chapter XIX. — 1. When was the constitution revised ? 

2. What does the preamble express ? 

3. How are personal rights secured? 

201 



202 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the privilege of worshiping God in the manner agreeable to 
the dictates of his own conscience ; that there shall be no 
established religion in the State ; that no law shall be passed 
abridging the liberty of speech or the press ; and that no 
person shall be imprisoned for debt. 

4. Article second provides that every white male citizen 
fvf the United States, of the age of twenty-one years, who 
has resided in the State one year and in the county five 
months, shall be entitled to vote; but no pauper or idiot, 
insane person or any one convicted of felony, can vote. The 
Legislature may pass laws to deprive persons, convicted of 
bribery at elections, from voting.* 

5. The powers of the government are divided into three 
departments — legislative, executive and judicial. 

6. The legislative power is vested in a Senate and General 
Assembly. Members of the Senate and General Assembly 
are elected on the second Tuesday of October, and the two 
houses meet separately on the second Tuesday of January. 
The Senate is composed of one senator from each county in 
the State, elected for three years ; and only one-third of the 
number of State senators is chosen at each annual election. 
The General Assembly is composed of members elected annu- 
ally ; the number cannot be less than one from each county, 
nor more than sixty from the whole State. 

7. The Legislature is not allowed to grant divorces or to 
authorize lotteries in the State. The members of the Legis- 
lature are required to take the following oath or affirmation : 

* Women voted under tlie constitution of 1776, but in November, 
1807, a law was passed by the Legislature confining suffrage to white 
male citizens of the age of twenty-one years. 

4. Who may vote? 

5. How are the powers of government divided ? 

6. How is the Legislature organized ? 

7. What restrictions are placed on legislation ? 



THE STATE CONSTITUTION. 203 

" I do solemnly swear [or affirvi] that I will support the 
Constitution of the United States and the constitution of 
the State of New Jersey ; and that I will faithfully dischai-ge 
the duties of senator [or member of General Assembly] accord- 
ing to the best of my ability." 

8. The executive power is vested in a governor, to be 
chc^en every third year at the general election, and to be 
installed on the third Tuesday of January, to continue in 
office during three years. The governor cannot be re-elected 
at the expiration of his term of service. He must be at 
least thirty years of age, have been for twenty years a citizen 
of the United States, and a resident of New Jersey seven 
years preceding his election. In case of the death, resigna- 
tion or removal of the governor, the powers and duties of the 
office devolve upon the president of the Senate ; and, in case 
of his removal, upon the speaker of the House, until another 
governor shall be qualified. 

9. The judicial power is vested in a court of errors and 
appeals, a court of trial of impeachments, a court of chancery, 
a supreme court, circuit courts, and such other inferior courts 
as may be established by law. Justices of the supreme court, 
chancelors and judges of the court of errors and appeals, are 
appointed by the governor ; judges of the court of common 
pleas are appointed by the Senate and General Assembly ; 
justices of the inferior courts are elected by the several dis- 
tricts in which they reside. 

10. Amendments must be proposed in the Senate or 
General Assembly, and if approved by the majority of the 
members of the two houses, they are referred to the next 
Legislature. If approved by that Legislature, they are sub- 

8. What is said of the executive? What are the necessary qualifica- 
tions for tlie office of governor ? 

9. How is the judicial power vested ? How are judges ajipointi d ? 
10. How may the constitution be amended? 



204 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

mitted to the people ; and if ratified at a special election by 
a majority of the people voting, they become part of the con- 
stitution. But no amendment or amendments shall be sub- 
mitted to the people by the Legislature oftener than once in 
five years. 

11. This constitution took eflfect on the 21st day of Sep- 
tember, 1844. 

11. When did this constitution take effect? 



CHAPTER XX. 

Education. 




STATE NORMAL SCHOOL. 



1. The history of educational efforts in this State begins 
with the date of the earliest English settlements. There are 
no records of schools established by the Dutch settlers at 
Bergen or by the Swedes on the east bank of the Delaware. 
The Swedes west of the river opened schools soon after their 
arrival there, and the same is true of the Dutch on Manliat- 
tan Island. It is therefore reasonable to suppose that the 
families settled in New Jersey also provided for the education 
of their children. 

2. The Presbyterians and Congregationalists, who were 



Chapter XX. — 1. When did educational wori< begin in New 
Jersey ? 

18 205 



206 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

the earliest immigrauts under the English authority, came 
to the Province bringing preachers and school-teachers with 
them. By the side of the log church the primitive school- 
house was erected, and schools, supervised and supported l)y 
the church authorities, were established in the early settle- 
ments at Elizabeth, Newark, Middletown, Freehold, Shrews- 
bury, Piscataway, Perth Amboy, Woodbridge and other 
places in East New Jersey. 

3. The pioneers in West New Jersey were Quakers. 
Education was part of the religion of these people. To 
them school-houses were scarcely second in importance, and 
were usually placed under the same roof with the church. 
Fenwick's Settlement, at Salem, opened a school soon after 
its establishment, and maintained it without interruption to 
the present day. 

4. The settlement at Burlington exhibited a wonderful 
degree of progress, both in the appreciation of learning and 
in the knowledge of the best plan for the support of public 
schools. In 1683 an island in the Delaware, opposite the 
town, was set apart for educational purposes, and the reve- 
nues derived from the rent or sale of the lands were reserved 
for the support of schools for the education of the children in 
the adjoining settlements. This was certainly the first school 
fund established in the Province ; and it is doubtful whether 
any other settlement in America was in this respect in advance 
of Burlington. 

5. As early as the year 1667, George Fox advised his 
brethren in New Jersey to establish boarding-schools, " that 

2. How did tlie English immigrants come? Where were schools 
established? 

3. What is said of the pioneers in West .Jersey? Where did they 
establish a school? 

4. What early appropriation was made? 

5. What did George Fox advise? What school was opened? 



COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY ESTABLISHED. 207 

young men of genius in low circumstances may be furnished 
with means to procure requisite education." The Shackel- 
well school, which was opened about this time, was estab- 
lished "for the teaching of whatsoever things were civil and 
useful in creation." 

6. The General Assembly of East New Jersey, in session 
at Perth Amboy in 1693, passed an "Act for the establish- 
ment of schoolmasters in the Province." This act author- 
ized the inhabitants of any town to elect three or more school 
commissioners, whose duty it was to employ and to fix the 
" rate for the salary and maintaining of a schoolmaster 
within said town." The majority of the people might com- 
pel the minority to pay their share of the teacher's salary. 
If any person refused to pay his proportion, the commission- 
ers had authority to levy upon and sell his goods or property 
for the payment thereof This was a complete recognition 
of the principle of taxing property for the support of public 
schools, which at the time was up to the most advanced leg- 
islation on this subject in America. 

7. In 1695 this act Avas amended, providing that three 
men should be chosen yearly in each separate town, to have 
"power to appoint the most convenient place or places where 
the school shall be kept, that as near as may be the whole 
inhabitants may have the benefit thereof" Under the oper- 
ation of this law, schools were established in all parts of the 
Province, wherever a majority of the inhabitants desired them. 

8. The College of New Jersey was incorporated in the 
year 1746. In 1756 it was permanently established at 
Princeton. This institution at an early period of its history 
attained an honorable position among the best colleges in Amer- 

6. What was the first legislation on this subject? 

7. When and how was this act amended? 

8. When was the College of New Jersey incorporated? What is its 
character? What other celebrated institution is at Princeton ? 



208 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

ica, and has ever maintained a high reputation. The General 
Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the United States 
founded a theological seminary at Princeton in 1811, which 
has long been celebrated for the extent and liberality of its 
teachings. 

9. Rutgers College was chartered by King George III. of 
England in 1770, under the name of Queen's College, and 
was established at New Brunswick. The name was changed 
by the State Legislature in 1825, in honor of Henry Rutgers, 
one of its most liberal benefactors. The institution is con- 
trolled by the Reformed Dutch Church. The theological 
college of this denomination, the first theological school 
established in America, is also at New Brunswick, founded 
in 1771. 

10. In 1816 the Legislature passed an act creating a pub- 
lic fund for the support of free schools in the commonwealth. 
This act directed the State treasurer, to invest the sum of fif- 
teen thousand dollars in United States bonds, bearing six 
per cent, interest, as a permanent school fund. This sum 
was increased by act of Legislature in 1817. 

11. In 1818 the governor, the vice-president of councils, 
the speaker of the Assembly, the attorney-general and the 
secretary of the commonwealth were "appointed trustees for 
the control and management of the fund for the support of 
free schools." The Avhole amount of the fund was then in- 
creased to the sum of 8113,238.78. 

12. A law was passed in 1820 authorizing the inhabitants 
of any township to raise by taxation money for the education 
of the children of the poor. In 1824 the Legislature provided 
that one-tenth of all the State taxes should every year be 

9. When was Bntgers College founded? What other institution is 
at New Brunswick ? 

10. What was done in 1S16? 

11. Who were appointed to manage the school fund ? 



LEGISLATIVE ACTION ON EDUCATION. 209 

added to the school fund. Four years hiter, the people were 
authorized to raise funds in town meetings to erect or re- 
pair school-houses. The presidents of such meetings were 
directed to read to the people the act of 1820, and also that 
of 1828. 

13. A "central committee" on education was appointed 
by a convention held at Trenton in 1828 to canvass the State 
and collect statistics from every county. Committees were 
appointed in the several counties and in the majority of 
townships to aid the central committee. The reports from 
these committees show that many schools had been estab- 
lished in all parts of the commonwealth, but more than one- 
third of the children in the State were reported to be with- 
out schooling of any kind. Many of the county reports 
contain evidence that the leading men in the State thor- 
oughly understood the true basis of a public-school system. 

14. The chairman of the committee for Essex county said: 
" I very much wish that some plan of improvement may be 
attempted to raise the tone of feeling respecting our common 
schools. I have thought of no plan better than to establish 
a high school for the sole purpose of educating young men 
for teachers. Let them be taught in this school not only the 
common branches required to be taught in common schools, 
but let them be instructed and properly disciplined in the 
best mode of communicating ideas to the young mind. They 
should learn to govern themselves, and to govern their schools 
without a rod or without a cross word. Let all government 
be effected by mild and pleasing persuasion, that shall so win 
the affections of every child that he will feel most pleasure 
when he pleases his teacher most." 

12. What were the people authorized to do ? 

13. What important work was undertaken? What did these com- 
mittees report? 

14. What did the Essex county committee say? 
18 » 



210 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

15. The proposition to establish a normal school at that 
early period was in advance of public action on that subject 
anywhere in America, and evinced a just appreciation of the 
wants of a successful system of public instruction. 

16. In 1829 the Legislature first began to make annual 
appropriations for the supjoort of common schools. In that 
year $20,000 were apportioned to the several counties in pro- 
portion to the amount of taxes paid by the inhabitants. This 
act also provided for the election of school committees in each 
townsliip. The committees were authorized to divide the 
townships into convenient school districts, to examine and 
license teachers and to call annually district meetings. 

17. At these meetings three trustees were chosen every 
year, to determine how many months the schools should be 
kept open, to provide suitable school-houses, to prepare a list 
of children in the district between the ages of four and six- 
teen years, and to send a copy of the list to the townshij) 
committee. The public money was divided among the dis- 
tricts in each township in proportion to the number of chil- 
dren reported in the official lists. 

18. The school committees were required to visit and in- 
spect the schools at least once in every six months, and to 
make a report of the condition of the schools in the town- 
ship. This report was read at the annual town meeting, and 
was then sent to the governor, to be laid before the Legisla- 
tui'e. Though this act was amended in 1830 and 1831, no 
important changes were made during a period often years. 

19. In 1838 the inhabitants of each township Avere recom- 
mended to raise, by taxation or otherwise, money for school 

15. What is said of tlie proposition ? What does it show? 

16. What is said of annual appropriations? W^hat further was 
done that year? 

17. What were the trustees to do? 

18. What wei-e the school committees required to do? 



THE SCHOOL SYSTEM REMODELED. 211 

purposes. This act also authorized the trustees to use the 
State appropriation exclusively for the education of the 
poor. The most important change made from the old law 
was the provision that the public money, which had been 
paid to the trustees of the districts, should now be paid to 
the several schools in the township, whether they were pub- 
lic, private or parochial. This change was made in obedi- 
ence to the demands of the religious denominations in the 
State. Schools had been established by churches and meet- 
ings in all parts of the commonwealth, and the friends of 
these demanded, and finally obtained, part of the annual 
appropriation from the public treasury. The money was 
therefore distributed among all schools in proportion to the 
number of children taught. 

20. In 1838 there was a general movement throughout 
the State to remodel the school system. Public meetings 
were held, and a State convention assembled at Trenton on 
the IGth of January. This convention declared that the 
school laws were defective and ought to be repealed. It 
recommended the appointment of a State superintendent 
of common schools, and appointed a committee, of which 
George W. Doane was chairman, to issue an address to the 
people. 

21. The address of the committee reviewed the condition 
of public education in the State, recommended proper changes 
in the school system, and said to the inhabitants, " Tax 
yourselves for the support of common schools, and you will 
never be in danger of taxation from a foreign power. You 
will need less taxation for the support of pauperism and the 

19. What was recommended ? What important change was made? 
Why? 

20. What occurred in 1838? AVhat was recommended by the con- 
vention ? 

21. What was the character of the address? 
18 « 



212 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

punishment of crime. Look to your school-houses. See 
that they are convenient of access, that they are comfort- 
able, that they are neat and tasteful. Look to the teachers. 
See that they are taught themselves and apt to teach — men 
that fear God and love their country. See that they are 
well accommodated, well treated, well remunerated. Respect 
them and they will respect themselves, and your children 
will respect them. Look well to the scholars. Remember, 
you are to grow old among them. Remember, you are to 
die and leave your country in their hands." 

22. The Legislature, instructed by the action of the 
people, passed an act in 1838 that increased the annual 
appropriation to $80,000, authorized each township to raise 
by taxation a sum equal to double the portion received from 
the State, re-established the district system of distributing the 
public money, created a board of examiners for each county, 
with authority to issue county certificates to competent teachers, 
fixed the age for admission at five years, allowed the use of 
public money for the erection of buildings, the purchase of 
fuel, furniture and books and the payment of teachers, and 
granted to schools already established by any religious socie- 
ties a fair proportion of the public fund. 

23. During the sessions of an educational convention at 
Trenton, in January, 1845, a preliminary meeting of citizens 
from all parts of the State, of which Ex-governor Peter 
D. Vroom was elected chairman, was held on the 13th of that 
month, for the purpose of organizing a State Historical So- 
ciety. This meeting appointed a committee to draft a consti- 
stitution and by-laws, and then adjourned to meet again on 
the 27th of February. At the second meeting the "New 

22. What act did the Legislature pass ? Wiio were authorized to 
examine teachers? 

23. Wiien and liow was the Historical Society organized? What 
has been done by this society? 



HISTORICAL SOCIETY ORGANIZED. 213 

Jersey Historical Society" was fully organized,* The society 
publislied au address to the people, inviting all who possessed 
papers, books, or anything relating to the history of New 
Jersey, to forward them to the librarian. • The inhabitants 
of. the State responded freely to this request, and the society 
thus became the recipient of much valuable historical matter. 
This has been carefully compiled by the secretary, William 
A. Whitehead, and published in several volumes, entitled 
"Collections of the New Jersey Historical Society." 

24. The constitution adopted in 1844 declared that " it 
shall not be competent for the Legislature to borrow, appro- 
priate or use the school fund, or any part thereof, under any 
pretence whatever, for any other purpose than for the support 
of public schools for the equal benefit of all the people." f 
A supplementary act, passed by the Legislature in April, 
1845, authorized the State trustees of the school fund to 
appoint a superintendent of public schools for the counties 
of Essex and Passaic. Other counties might come under the 
provisions of the law by resolution of the board of freeholders. 

* The following officers were elected at the meeting in February : 
President, Joseph C. Hornblower ; vice-presidents, Robert G. Johnson, 
Peter D. Vroom and James Parker; treasurer, Thomas J. Stryker; 
librarian, Tliomas Gordon ; corresponding secretary, William A. White- 
head ; recording secretary, Joseph P. Bradley ; chairman of executive 
committee, Daniel V. McLean. 

f This provision Avas inserted in the new constitution through the 
efforts of James Parker, the father of the school fund and an ardent 
supporter of public education. Mr. Parker was also an early advocate 
of the construction of canals and railroads across the State, was long an 
able legislator in the Slate and in Congress, and an active philanthro- 
pist during many years. He was the second president of the State 
Historical Society. He died at the age of ninety-two years, at Perth 
Aniboy, in 1863. 

24. What does the Constitution declare? What supplementary act was 
passed ? When was the jurisdiction of the superintendent extended ? 



214 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

The superintendent was required to visit the schools and to 
make an annual report to the Legislature. He received 
three dollars a day for the time given to this work. The 
jurisdiction of the superintendent was extended over the 
whole State in 1846.* 

25. The general school law was amended in 1846, so as to 
require every township to raise for school purposes a sum of 
money at least equal to its portion of the State appropriation. 
It also authorized the election of township superintendents, 
who were required, among other duties, to visit the schools 
once every quarter, and to make a report of their condition 
to the State superintendent. It authorized the board of 
trustees and town superintendents to erect school-houses and 
to determine what books should be used in the township. 
It made it the duty of the trustees of the school fund to elect 
the State superintendent and to fix his salary, and limited his 
term of office to two years. 

26. In 1851 the annual appropriation was increased to 
$40,000.t The act of that year provided also that the 
public money should be apportioned to the counties in 
the ratio of their population, and to the townships in propor- 
tion to the number of children between the ages of five 
and eighteen years. No township was allowed to raise by 
taxation, for school purposes, more than three dollars an- 

* State superintendents of New Jersey : 

T. F. King, from 1845 to 18-52. 

John H. Phillips, from 1852 to 1860. 

F. W. Eicord, " 1860 to 1SG4. 

C.M.Harrison, " 1864 to 1866. 

E. A. Apgar, " 1866 to 

f By joint resolutions, the Legislature had added $10,000 to the 
annual appropriation in 1849 and in 1850, making the appropriation 
for each of these years $40,000. 

25. How was the school law amended in 1846 ? 

26. What was done in 1851 ? How was the public money to be used? 



STATE NORMAL SCHOOL ESTABLISHED. 215 

nually for each child on the list. The public money was to 
be used in maintaining "a free school in each township, 
in which all children who desired might be taught free of 
charge." 

27. In 1854 teachers' institutes were established by law, 
and $100 were appropriated annually to each institute. In 
the following year the Legislature provided for the purchase 
of a copy of Webster's Dictionary for each school in the 
State. The annual appropriation for the support of schools 
was increased to $80,000 in 1858— $50,000 from the school 
fund and $30,000 from the general revenues. 

28. The educators in New Jersey were among the first in 
the United States to advocate the establishing of schools for 
the professional training of teachers. Professor Philip Lind- 
say, acting president of the College of New Jersey, in 1823 
declared in favor of professional schools for teachers. In 
January, 1828, Professor John Maclean, of the same institu- 
tion, in a public lectui'e, recommended the establishment of 
a school "to educate young men for the business of teach- 
ing." In 1847, Professor E. C. Wines read to a convention 
at Mount Holly a " report on normal schools," which was 
printed and widely circulated. The subject was presented to 
the State Teachers' Association in 1855, in an essay by John 
T. Clark, of New Brunswick. County educational meetings 
and the reports of the State superintendents and letters from 
many leading citizens forcibly pressed ui:)on the authorities 
the necessity for the immediate founding of a normal school. 
Richard S. Field and David Naar greatly assisted the friends 

27. AVhen were teachers' institutes established? When was the 
State normal school established? What is the object of this school? 
What book was purchased for the schools? 

28. When and by whom was the establisliment of a normal school 
advocated? When and how was the State normal school provided 
for? 



216 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

of this movement by using their influence to procure the legis- 
lation whereby, in 1855, the State normal school was estab- 
lished, with an annual appropriation of $10,000 for its 
support. 

29. The city of Trenton provided buildings for the accom- 
modation of the institution, which was opened for students 
in March, 1856. The property of the normal and model 
school, and the boarding-houses for students, are valued at 
$160,000, An auxiliary department, called the Farnum 
Preparatory School, was founded at Beverly in 1856, by 
Paul Farnum, who gave $70,000 in property and money for 
the support of that school. 

30. The State normal school is placed under the super- 
vision of a board of trustees, appointed by the governor and 
confirmed by the Senate. Two trustees are appointed from 
each congressional district.* The board ajipoints the teacher-s 
and prescribes rules for the government of the school. f The 
management of the institution has been highly successful, 
and has resulted in great good to the State. The profession 
of teaching has been elevated, educational interests in every 
county have been advanced, better teachers have been pro- 
vided, and the public schools in all parts of the common- 
wealth improved rapidly. The attendance at the State nor- 
mal school in 1868 was, in the normal department, 259 ; 
model department, 555; preparatory, 302; total, 1116. 

* Hon. Richard S. Field was elected first president of the board of 
trustees, and has lield that position to the present time — 1869. 

f William F. Phelps was appointed principal of the State normal 
school in 1856. In 1864, Professor Phelps resigned, and John S. Hart, 
LL.D., was appointed principal. 

29. When and where was the school opened ? What is the value 
of its property ? 

30. How is the normal school governed? W^hat is said of this in- 
stitution ? 



THE SCHOOL LA W REMODELED. 217 

31. The State Board of Education was established in 1866. 
The trustees of the normal school, the governor, attorney- 
general, state comptroller, secretary of state, president of the 
Senate, speaker of the House, and the principal and treasurer 
of the State normal school, were, by act of the Legislature, 
constituted this board. It has authority to appoint the State 
superintendent, makes an annual report of the educational 
work in the State, and prescribes rules and regulations for 
holding teachers' institutes. The distribution of public 
money to private and parochial schools was now discon- 
tinued, and the State appropriation was reserved for the sup- 
port of the public schools. 

32. In 1867 the school law was remodeled, the best features 
of the old system were retained, and important new provisions 
were adopted. The State board was confirmed and its powers 
were enlarged ; the qualifications and duties of the State super- 
intendent were defined ; the otfice of county superintendent 
was established; the "township board of trustees" was recog- 
nized as the legal association of the district trustees for each 
township ; teachei's were required to keep a " school regis- 
ter ;" a school month was defined to be " twenty school days, 
or four weeks of five school-days each ;" Christmas, the first 
of January, the fourth day of July, and days of thanksgiving 
and fasting appointed by the President of the United States 
or governor of the State, were declared to be holidays. 

33. A State board of examiners was established, with 
authority to grant and revoke State certificates, which entitle 
the holder to teach in any part of the commonwealth ; also 

31. Who constitute the State board? What are its powers and 
duties? What important change was made in the distribution of the 
public money ? 

32. When was the school law remodeled? Name some of the lead- 
ing features of the law. What is a school month ? 

33. What is said of examiners? For what was provision made? 
19 



218 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

county aud city boards with similar powers in their respect- 
ive localities. Ample provision was made for the govern- 
ment and support of the State normal school at Trenton. 

34. This act gave authority to the inhabitants of any two 
or more districts to establish a graded school, to be supported 
by public funds and governed by a board of trustees. The 
collection of taxes, the increase of the school fund and the 
distribution of the public money were carefully provided for, 
and the system in all its parts was adapted to the educational 
wants of the people. 

34. What authority did this act give ? 






CHAPTER XXI. 

Public Improvements. 




PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS. 



1. The first road of any considerable extent in New 
Jersey was that which opened communication between the 
Hudson and the Delaware. It began at Elizabeth Point, 
crossed the Raritan near where New Brunswick now stands, 
and reached the Delaware above the present site of Trenton. 
A branch of this road swept eastward from the ford on the 
Raritan and crossed the Delaware at Burlington. This was 
for many years only a bridle-path, and as late as 1695 only 
£10 annually were required to keep it in repair. In 1684 a 
road was opened from Perth Amboy to Burlington, and a 
ferry boat was established between Amboy and New York. 

2. An express wagon was run between New York and 

Chapter XXI. — 1. Where were the first roads opened in New 
Jersey ? 

2. When were the first express and stage wagons run ? 

219 



220 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Philadelphia before 1707, to carry produce and merchandise. 
A few years later a "stage wagon" for passengers and freight 
was put on the road from Burlington to Perth Amboy, an- 
other on the New Brunswick road, and a third by way of 
Bordentown. 

3. A mail system was devised by Colonel John Hamilton, 
in 1694, which was adopted by the English government. In 
1729 the mail passed once a week between New York and 
Philadeljjhia in summer, and once a fortnight in winter. This 
schedule continued till 1754. From that date the mail system 
was rapidly improved, and in 1764 the carriers passed over 
the route three times a week, and made the trip from city 
to city in twenty-four hours. There were, in 1791, six post- 
offices in the State; these were at Newark, Elizabeth, Bridge- 
ton, New Brunswick, Princeton and Trenton. 

4. Legislation for the building of turnpikes in the State 
began in March 1801. A charter was granted in that 
year to the Morris Turnpike Company for the construction 
of a turnpike from Elizabeth, through Morristown, to the 
Delaware. Within thirty years from that date fifty-four 
companies were organized and obtained permission to build 
roads, but only about one-half of these were built. John 
Stevens, a citizen of the State, was one of the first advocates 
of railroad-building in the United States. At his solicitation 
the Legislature granted a charter in 1815 for the construc- 
tion of a railroad, either of wood or iron, from the Delaware 
river near Trenton to the Raritan near New Brunswick. 
This was the fii-st railroad charter granted in America. 

5. The Morris and Essex Canal Company was incorporated 
in December, 1824, with a capital of $1,000,000. The at- 
tempt to connect the Hudson with the Delaware by the con- 

3. What is said of mail service and post-offices? 

4. When and where were turnpikes constructed? When was the first 
railroad charter granted ? 



PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS. 221 

struction of this canal was at the time by far the most stu- 
pendous project undertaken on this continent. The work 
was begun in 1825, and was completed, so as to admit of the 
passage of boats, carrying twenty-five tons, from Newark to 
Philipsburg, in 1831. The Avork Avas afterward extended to 
Jersey City : the cost of the whole line, comj^leted in 1836, 
exceeded $2,000,000. 

6. The Delaware and Karitan Canal, which connects the 
Delaware river at Bordentown with the Raritan at New 
Brunswick, was completed in 1834. This project had long 
engaged the attention of the inhabitants of the State. In 
1804 the construction of a canal between these rivers was 
strongly urged ; in 1816, and again in 1823, commission- 
ers appointed by the Legislature examined the route and pro- 
nounced it practicable. The company that finally completed 
the work was chartered in 1830. In February, 1831, this 
company and the Camden and Amboy Railroad Company 
were consolidated, and soon thereafter entered upon the con- 
struction of their great lines across the State.* 

7. The Camden and Amboy Railroad Company was incor- 
porated in Februaiy, 1830, with authority to construct a rail- 
road from the Delaware river, in Gloucester county, to the 

* Under subsequent acts these companies united with the New Jersev 
Railroad and Transportation Company, and obtained control of several 
other lines. They own the following: Philadelphia and Trenton 
(Kensington to Trenton, Delaware Branch), 26.G miles long; Trenton 
to Jersey City, 57.1; Jamesburg to Monmouth Junction, 5.5; Camden 
to Amboy, 61.2; Bordentown to Trenton, 6.1; Monmouth Junction to 
Kingston, 4; and branches, 4.5; total length, 165. They have a con- 
trolling interest in the Rocky Hill to Kingston, 2.5 miles long; Bur- 
lington to Mount Holly, 7.1; Mount Holly to Camden, 16.5; Pember- 
ton to Mount Holly, 5.9; Vincenttown Branch, 3; West Jersey to 

5. When was canal-building begun ? What is said of the Morris 
and Essex Canal ? 

8. When was the Delaware and Raritan Canal built? 
19 » 



222 HIS TOBY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Raritan bay. A train first passed over the entire length of 
this road in 1833. The line from New Brunswick to Jersey 
City was completed in 1836; the Belvidere Delaware to 
Lambertville, in 1851, to Easton in 1854, and to Belvidere 
in 1856 ; the Central of New Jersey, in 1852 ; the Morris 
and Essex, in 1853; the Camden and Atlantic, in 1854; the 
West Jersey, in 1857, to Woodbury, and in 1861 to Bridge- 
ton; the Millville and Glassboro', in 1861, and the Northern 
New Jersey, in 1864. In 1869 there were nine hundred and 
four miles of railroad in the State, constructed at a cost of 
$55,995,000. * 

8. The position of New Jersey, between two great cities, 
and the adaptability of its soil and climate to the cultivation 
of fruits and vegetables, have induced many of its citizens to 
engage in that business, so that the State has been named 
" the market-garden of New York and Philadelphia." 
Within the past few years numerous settlements have been 
formed, wherein the families devote their efforts chiefly to the 
growing of small fruits, which are shipped to the city markets. 
Hammonton, in Atlantic county, is the centre of one of the 
most prosperous fruit-growing communities in the State. 
Vineland, in Cumberland county, is another. This village 

Bridgeton, 37, and from Millville to Glassboro', 22; Cape May and 
Millville, 44; Salem Branch, 17; Freehold and Jamesburg, 11.5; 
Millstone, G.6 ; Perth Amboy and Woodbridge, 6.4; Belvidere Dela- 
ware, 68.7; Flemington Branch, 11.4; total, 259.6; and they lease the 
Pemberton and Hightstown and connecting roads, 31.3. 

These united companies thns control 65 miles of canal and 456 of 
railroad, costing nearly $30,500,000. The last year's business, as re- 
ported in April, 1869, was $7,830,525. The number of passengers car 
ried nearly six millions, and the tonnage over a million tons. 

* See Table IV. Appendix. 

7. When were the principal railroads completed? 

8. To what are the climate and soil of the State adapted ? Wliat is 
said of fruit-growing? 



SLAVERY ABOLISHED. 223 

was founded in 1861. The population of the township is 
now about five thousand ; the viHage contains three churches, 
four manufactories and twenty-five stores. The inhabitants 
are largely engaged in the cultivation of small fruits, from 
the sale of which they derive their principal revenue. 

9. The sea-coast of this State has recently become a favor- 
ite place of resort. Cape May has long been a popular 
watering-place during the summer season. The Camden and 
Atlantic Railroad was completed in 1854, and soon there- 
after large hotels were erected at its terminus for the accom- 
modation of guests, and since that time many people have an- 
nually spent the summer at Atlantic City. At Long Branch 
and Deal Beach the soil is said to be the only fertile terri- 
tory immediately on the coast from Maine to Georgia. 
Long Branch has recently become a village of vast hotels, 
which are occupied by persons who leave the great cities 
during the summer season to enjoy the sea air and bathing. 

10. Slavery was introduced into New Jersey at the foun- 
dation of the province, but it was never popular with the 
people. In the counties of Burlington, Gloucester, Salem, 
Cumberland and Cape May there were comparatively few. 
These counties were inhabited by Quakers, who early de- 
clared themselves opposed to this institution. The traffic be- 
tween this and other States was prohibited in 1798. In 1804 
an act was passed for the gradual abolition of slavery, which 
provided that all children born in the State after that date 
should be free. In 1800 the number of slaves was 12,422 ; 
under the operation of the emancipation act this number 
rapidly diminished. In 1810 it was 10,851 ; in 1830, 2254, 
and in the census of 1860 it was reduced to 18. 

9. What has the sea-coast become ? Where are the principal places 
of resort? 

10. What is said of slavery ? 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Natural Resources — Manufactures. 




MANUrACTURE OF GLASS. 



1. The northern part of the State is crossed by a series 
of ridges of the Appalachian chain, and is therefore moun- 
tainous. The central part is hilly, and the southern half is 
level and sandy. 

2. On the borders of the ocean and on the Delaware bay, 
there is a strip of land, from one to five miles in width, that 
is on a level with the high-water line. This is called the 
tide-marshes. It is covered with grass, but beneath the tough 
sod there is a deposit of soft mud, which in some places is 
thirty feet deep. 



Chapter XXII.— 1. Describe the surface of the State. 
2. What are the tide-niarslies? 



224 



SHIP-BUILDING AND MILLS. 225 

3. The pioneers in New Jersey at a very early day gave 
their attention to ship-building and to the erection of saw 
and grist mills to supply their pressing wants. Ship-building 
began in 1683. In 1694 an act of Assembly for the encour- 
agement of ship-building provided that no timber should be 
exported except to Gi'eat Britain. A town lot in Amboy was 
granted to Miles Foster by the proprietors, as a reward for 
having built the first sloop at that place. The ship-yards at 
Salem and Burlington were early noted for the number and 
quality of the vessels built at them. 

4. The first saw-mill of which any record is found was 
erected at Woodbridge in 1682 ; another was built at Salem 
in the same year. In May, 1683, Governor Rudyard wrote 
from Amboy, "There are five or six mills going up here this 
spring." Saw and grist mills were erected at Little Egg 
Harbor by Edward Andross in 1704, and others, in 1758, 
at Pemberton on the north branch of the Rancocas. In 1798 
there were in New Jersey nearly five hundred saw-mills. 
Woodbridge also claims the first corn-mill in the State. It 
was built in 1670 by Jonathan Dunham, who agreed with 
the town to furnish "two good stones of at least five feet 
diameter." The owner received grants of land as an encour- 
agement, and was allowed a toll of one-sixteenth. Other 
mills were built in 1705, 1709 and 1710. Newark appointed 
Robert Treat and Richard Harrison, in 1668, "to erect a 
grist-mill on the brook at the north end of the toAvn," and 
two of the six days of the week were made grinding days. 
In 1682 a mill was built at Hoboken by residents of New 
York. A water-wheel mill Avas built near Rancocas creek, 
West Jei'sey, by Thomas Olive, and another at Trenton by 
Robert Stacey, in 1680. In 1690, John Townsend built a 

3. What is said of ship-building? 

4. Where were saw and grist mills first built? 

P 



226 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

mill ten miles below Little Egg Harbor. A patent for an 
improvement in grist-mills, by the use of horizontal wheels, 
was granted in 1791 to Mr. Macomb. In 1796 there were 
five hundred flourishing mills in New Jersey. 

5. The second paper-mill in the country (the first being at 
Roxboro', Pennsylvania) was built at Elizabeth previous to 
1728. It was owned by Samuel Bradford, the government 
printer for New Jersey and New York, who lived there for 
some time. In 1769 there were forty paper-mills in this 
State and the adjoining States of Pennsylvania and Delaware, 
manufacturing to the amount of £100,000 value annually. 
Several manufactories of paper-hangings were established in 
New Jersey, Boston and Philadelphia prior to 1787, and 
shortly after the establishment of the Patent Office, patents 
for imjDrovements in these goods were taken out by J. Condict 
and Charles Kinsey of this State. 

6. Printing in New Jersey was transiently done by Samuel 
Keimer, Avho transported a press from Philadelphia to Bur- 
lington to do the printing for a lot of New Jersey paper- 
money. James Parker, a native of Woodbridge, was the first 
resident printer. He established a press at that town in 1751. 
The next year he published a folio edition of the laws of the 
Province. In 1765 he removed his press to Burlington, but 
returned to Woodbridge after printing "Smith's History of 
New Jersey." He published the "New American Maga- 
zine" monthly for twenty -seven months. This was the first 
periodical issued in New Jersey, The first newspaper pub- 
lished was the " New Jersey Gazette," issued at Burlington 
December 3, 1777, It suspended publication November, 
1786, The "New Jersey Journal" was first published in 
1779, at Chatham, It was removed to Elizabeth in 1786, 
A quarto edition of the Bible was published at Trenton 

5. What is said of paper-mills? 

6. What of printing? 



BRICK-MAKING AND GLASS-BLOWING. 227 

in 1791. "The Quarterly Theological and Religious De- 
pository" was coiinaenced at Burlington in 1813. "The 
Biblical Repertory and Theological Review" was first issued 
at Princeton, in 1825.* 

7. As early as the year 1683 the size and quality of brick 
made in the Province were regulated by act of Assembly, 
and thus the stability of many early buildings was ensured. 
The first record of a brick structure is the Friends' meeting- 
house at Salem, built in 1700, at a cost of £415 13s. 
Whether the bricks were imported or of home manufacture 
is not known. In 1713 a large dwelling was built at Had- 
donfield of brick imported from England; and in 1721 a 
brick Episcopal church was erected at Salem. Freestone 
was first quan-ied at Newark, in 1721. 

8. In 1748 a glass factory was established at Freasburg by 
German workmen, imported at considerable expense ; but the 
proprietor was soon ruined by the workmen deserting him to 
become land-owners. In 1765, "Wistai-'s Glass Works" 
were in operation about three miles from Allowaystown, Sa- 
lem county. The first factory for the making of window 
glass was established near Malaga, Camden county, about the 
year 1780. By the beginning of the next century others 
were in operation at Port Elizabeth and Millville. In 1820 
works were running at Clementon, Camden county, and 
Hammonton, Atlantic county. Other factories were estab- 
lished at Waterford in 1825, at Jackson in 1829, at Winslow 
in 1832, and the increase since that date has been steady. 

* There are now (1869) in tlie State seventy-eight publishing estab- 
lishments, issuing ninety-eight publications — seventeen daily, seventy- 
eight weekly and three monthly. Two dailies and five weeklies are 
printed in the German language. 

7. Of brick-making and buildings? 

8. Where was glass first made ? What is the extent of its manu- 
facture ? 



228 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

The works at Glassboro' were started in 1810, and were the 
first to make hollow-Avare glass. At the close of 1868 there 
were thirteen glass factories in the State. Ten furnaces con- 
nected with these produced to the value of about $1,000,000 
of window-glass, and twenty furnaces manufactured $1,500,- 
000 worth of hollow-ware goods during that year. 

9. Small works for the manufacture of salt were scattered 
along the shores of New Jersey during the Revolution. A 
number of these were destroyed by foraging parties of British 
troops. In 1778 several salt-works on the south side of 
Squam Inlet, Monmouth county, were burned ; and Dr. Har- 
ris' large establishment near Townsend Sound, Cape May 
county, was threatened because the owner had furnished gun- 
powder to the American troops. 

10. The cultivation and home manufacture of hemp and 
flax flourished in the early settlements of New Jersey. These 
were introduced into West Jersey by Scotch immigrants be- 
fore 1684. In 1678 the Quakers from Yorkshii-e and Lon- 
don, who settled Salem and Burlington in West Jersey, in- 
troduced the manufacture of cloth, serges, druggets and 
crapes ; good plushes, with several varieties of linen goods, 
were made at the same time. The first fulling-mill in the 
Province was built in February, 1703, by Richard Clarke, 
and for his encouragement he was granted twenty acres of 
land. In 1784 there were forty-one fulling-mills for house- 
hold woolens, but no woolen factories. 

11. The Legislature chartered, in 1791, a "Society for the 
Establishment of Useful Manufactures," with a capital of 
$200,000, divided into shares of $400 each. This com- 

9. Where was salt made? 

10. Wliat is said of flax and hemp, and woolen cloth ? 

11. How was manufacturing at Paterson begun? When and where 
were calico prints first made? What is said of Paterson ? What of 
Belleville? Where is thread made? 



MANUFACTURING AND TANNING. 229 

pany had the exclusive privilege of carrying on all kinds of 
manufacturing at the falls of the Passaic. It was under the 
patronage of Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury. 
In 1792 the association founded the town of Paterson, and 
in the following year the first yarn was spun there. The 
first factory was completed in 1794, and in that year calico 
goods were first printed in Nev/ Jersey. In 1823, Paterson 
contained three extensive woolen and two duck factories, 
which chiefly supplied the navy with canvas, and consumed 
over one ton of flax per day. " The New Jersey Bleaching, 
Printing and Dyeing company" at Belleville, nine miles from 
New York, was incorporated December, 1824, with a capital 
of $150,000. It erected one of the largest and most com- 
plete factories in the United States. In 1840 the manufac- 
ture of silk from the cocoon w^as begun at Paterson by John 
Kawle of England. That town has since become the princi- 
pal seat in the country of that industry, and produces an- 
nually silk goods to exceed $2,000,000 in value. The " Pas- 
saic Flax Mills," for making shoe, sewing-machine and all 
kinds of linen thread, were established at Paterson, 1864. The 
"American Velvet Company," previously located at Newark, 
erected a factory in Paterson in 1865. This was the first 
attempt to manufacture velvets on a large scale in America. 
To Paterson also belongs the credit of having produced the 
first locomotive engine made in the State. It was built at 
the Rogers Machine Works in 1837. These works were 
established in 1831 for the manufacture of machinery for 
cotton, woolen and flax factories. They were for many 
years one of the most extensive establishments in the 
country. 

12. Tanning was introduced into the Province by the first 
settlers of Elizabeth in 1664, and was encouraged by John 

12. Where was leather first made? What is said of its manufacture? 
20 



230 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Ogden, one of the proprietors. Throughout East Jersey ef- 
forts were made to induce mechanics to settle, and at Newark 
a lot of land was set apart as a gift to the first of every trade 
who should settle there. In 1676, Samuel Whitehead, the 
first shoemaker from Elizabethtown, was " formally admitted 
a member of the community, on condition of his supplying it 
with shoes." The exportation of hides was forbidden by 
law in 1678. The first tannery in Newark was established 
in 1698 ; and the first japanned leather made in this country 
was produced in that city. The leather trade is indebted 
for some of its most valuable mechanical aids to William 
Edwards.* 

13. The manufacture of iron-Avare, jewelry, leather, har- 
ness and carriages is now carried on extensively at Newark, 
and the city has recently increased rapidly in population and 
wealth. In 1830 it contained a population of 10,000 inhab- 
itants, and was little known as a manufacturing town. In 
1869 its population had increased to 120,000, and the pro- 
duct of its manufactures to nearly $40,000,000. The "Clark 
Thread Company" in 1865 erected, at a cost of three-quarters 
of a million dollars, at this place, the most extensive factory 
in the United States for the manufacture of cotton thread. 

* Colonel William Edwards, grandson of the eminent Jonathan Ed- 
wards, and a descendant by his mother from the Ogdens, was born at 
Elizabeth, in 1770. He learned the business of his uncles, Colonels 
Mathias Ogden and Oliver Spencer, two Revolutionary officers, who had 
a factory in that town. At Northampton, Massachusetts, when twenty 
years of age, he carried on the tanning, and it is believed he there em- 
ployed the first bark-mill run by water. He subsequently invented 
and patented the copper heater, long used by tanners, the hide mill 
or fulling stocks, and the beating or rolling mill. The saving of 
manual labor thus effected gave a great impulse to the manufacture of 
leather. 

13. What is said of manufactures at Newark ? 



MINERAL RESOURCES. 231 

Newark now takes the place of the third manufacturing city 
in America.* 

14. New Jersey contains rich mineral deposits — iron, cop- 
per and zinc. The zinc mines in Sussex county are among 
the richest in the United States, and have long been exten- 
sively worked by the New Jersey Zinc Company. In colo- 
nial times the most celebrated and productive copper mine 
was in the town of Hanover, Hudson county. This ore was 
discovered in 1719 by a negro servant, who picked up a piece 
of copper near that place. Hammers and other tools were 
found in an opening which had been worked many years 
before that date by Dutch settlers. The rich ore was trans- 
ported by a short land-carriage to the Hudson, and thence 
through New York it was shipped to England, where it was 
sold for £40 per ton. Before the Revolution the shaft had 
been sunk nearly two hundred feet. A steam engine was im- 
ported by Colonel John Schuyler in 1745, to keep the mine 
clear of water. It was the third engine erected in America, 
and continued in use forty years. 

15. In 1750, Elias Boudinot, of Philadelphia, leased for 
ninety-nine years a mine of copper within one-quarter of a 
mile of New Brunswick. He erected a stamping-mill and 
sent many tons of ore to England, but the mine was subse- 
quently abandoned. 

16. Some of the rich mines of iron ore in this State have 
been worked for a century and a half, and during many years 

* Summary of manufactures at Newark in 1868 : 

No. of hands. Capital. Production. 

Iron 3,000 $3,500,000 $4,250,000 

Jewelry 1,493 2,259,000 4,500,000 

Leather 1,500 3,000,000 4,300,000 

14. When and where were mines opened ? 

15. What is said of copper-mining? 

16. What is the character and location of the iron ore? 



232 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

furnished a large proportion of the iron manufactured in this 
country. Many of tliem still contain immense beds of ore 
above water-level, which may be taken out without the em- 
ployment of expensive machinery. These mines could be 
made to yield, advantageously, a million tons of ore annually 
for many years to come, which would be sufficient to supply 
nearly half of the consumption in the United States. They 
are situated in the counties of Sussex, Passaic, Warren and 
Morris, within an area of three hundred square miles. 

17. The first iron-works were established near Shrewsbury, 
and were on a large scale for an infant settlement. They are 
supposed to have been founded by James Grover, and were 
bought from him by Lewis Morris, a merchant of Barbadoes. 
The deed for 3540 aci-es of land bears date October 25, 1676. 
Good iron was made by the smelting furnace and forge in 
1682 ; over sixty negroes and a number of Avhite laborers were 
then employed. In 1714, Colonel Morris addressed a letter to 
the " Lords of Trade," transmitting an address from the Coun- 
cil and Assembly, asking encouragement for the iron interests 
of the Province. The first settlements in Sussex and Morris 
counties were made near Hanover, in 1685, for the purpose 
of smelting the ores found there. Forges were erected at a 
point that is still known as "the Old Forges," twenty miles 
eastward of the Suckasunny mine, in the town of Randolph. 
This mine was public property until 1716, w'hen it was taken 
up by Joseph Kirkbride. It subsequently became the pro- 
perty of Mahlon Dickerson, whose name it now bears. Bat- 
sto furnace was erected in 1766, by Charles Reed, near the 
junction of Batsto and Egg Harbor rivers in Burlington 
county. During the Revolutionary Avar it was employed in 
casting cannon, shot and shell for the use of the American 
army, and boilers for the salt-works on the coast. 

17. Where were iron-works first established? 



IRON MANUFACTURES. 233 

18. Before 1720 mining was commenced at Clinton, Mer- 
cer county. Union Furnace, which was abandoned in 1778, 
was supplied with ore from this place. The Oxford furnace 
was established in Sussex (now Warren) county in 1741. 
The first iron was made March 9, 1743. It is one of the 
oldest remaining in the Union, and being in complete repair 
is still running as a steam hot-blast furnace, two-thirds of the 
year on charcoal and one-third on anthracite. The Ring- 
wood and Longpond Bloomeries were built near Boardville, 
Passaic county, by Baron Hass before the Revolution. The 
Troy Bloomery, Morris county, is as old as the Oxford. At 
Andover, in the southern part of Sussex county, a blast 
furnace was erected before the Revolution, and the works 
were noted for their superior quality of bar iron. In Janu- 
ary, 1778, Congress directed that all steel for the use of the 
Continental artificers should be made of this iron, and the 
works were seized, as the owners were Royalists. They were 
again put in operation in 1847 by Messrs. Hewitt and Cooper. 
The first experiments in this country with the Bessemer pro- 
cess were made with this iron at the Cooper furnace at Phil- 
lipsburg. The first wrought-iron beams for fire-proof build- 
ings were also made by this company at its rolling-mills in 
Trentoii. 

19. In 1775, Thomas Maybery manufactured sheet iron at 
Mount Holly. Congress ordered from his factory, in May 
of that year, five tons of sheet iron to make camp-kettles for 
the troops. A nail factory was in operation at Burlington in 
1797. The earliest rolling-mill was built at Dover, Morris 
county, in 1792. The first anthracite furnace was blown in at 
Stanhope, Sussex county, in 1840. In 1784, New Jersey had 

18. Where are the oldest furnaces in the State? Wliere was steel 
first made ? 

19. Where was sheet iron made? What was the extent of iron- 
making in 1840 ? 

2u « 



234 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

eight furnaces and seventy-nine forges for the manufacture 
of iron. Ten years later there were made in the State 1200 
tons bar iron, 1200 tons pig, 80 tons nail rods, besides 
hollow-ware and castings. At the close of the century ten 
mines were Avorked in Morris county, and two furnaces, three 
rolling-mills and forty forges were in operation. 

20.. The foundry for the manufacture of malleable iron was 
established in Newark, in 1827, by Seth Boyden. This city is 
now one of the largest producers of this metal. 

21. In 1867 the State manufactured of anthracite iron 
36,919 tons, standing third in quantity among the States ; 
of charcoal pig iron, 9000 tons. Its forges and bloomeries 
made 5980 tons, and its rolling-mills produced 2076 tons 
of rails. In 1866 the other products of the rolling-mills 
were 11,478 tons of bar and rod iron, 6000 tons plate, 435 
tons hoop, 24,519 tons nails and spikes, 6184 tons axles, etc.; 
total, 48,616 tons. Its manufacture of steel was then 4157 
tons. 

22. The manufacturing establishments at Camden, on 
Cooper's Creek and at Gloucester Point, are comparatively 
of recent date, but they have grown rapidly and now rival 
the largest in the country. The American Nickel Works, 
owned by Joseph Wharton, founded in 1842, are on Cooper's 
Creek. This is the only establishment of the kind in America, 
and the operations carried on there are truly Avonderful. The 
nickel ore is obtained from a mine in Lancaster county, 
Pennsylvania, which is the best found in the world. From 
this ore 200,000 pounds of nickel metal are produced an- 
nually, valued at $250,000. Cobalt-oxide, blue vitriol and 
copperas are made from the same ore. The nickel is used at 

20. When and by whom was malleable iron first made? 

21. What was the extent of iron manufactures in 1867? 

22. What is said of manufactures at Camden ? Describe the nickel- 
works. 



y 



COTTON AND WOOLEN MANUFACTURES. 235 

the United States' mints in the making of coin, and in the 
manufactui'e of German silver. 

23. The manufacture of dyewood extracts, paint colors, 
fertilizers and other chemical compounds, is carried on in 
several large establishments. The first of these was erected 
on Cooper's Creek in 1842 ; their annual product is now 
nearly $2,000,000. 

24. Cotton and woolen goods are produced in considerable 
quantities. The Washington Manufacturing Company was 
incorporated in 1844, and employs a capital of $450,000, in 
the manufacture of cotton goods. The first loom was started 
in August, 1845. The works occupy ten acres of ground, 
contain 847 looms, 48,150 spindles and employ nearly 1000 
hands. The manufixctures are printed cloths, jeans and sati- 
nets, of which 9,000,000 yards, valued at $720,000, are pro- 
duced annually. The Gloucester Manufacturing Company 
was incorporated in 1845. Its works occupy eight acres of 
ground, employ 250 hands and produce annually 30,000,000 
yards of calicoes. The buildings of this company were to- 
tally destroyed by fire on the 14th of September, 1868, and 
were entirely rebuilt and began the manufacture of goods 
before the middle of March, 1869. Large works for the 
manufacture of fine French cassimeres were erected on 
Cooper's Creek in 1864, with the capacity of turning out 
$800,000 worth of these goods annually. There is also in 
Camden a large mill for the manufacture of girths, reins, 
webs, bindings, cords, tapes and other like fabrics. 

25. Carding-machines, spinning-jacks, looms, wool-pickers 
and other machinery are manufactured to the value of 
$500,000 annually. The Camden Iron Works produce cast- 

23. What other articles are manufactured at Camden ? 

24. What are the principal cotton-mills? State their capacities? 
What woolen goods are produced ? 

25. What machinery is made? 



236 HISTORY OF NEW JEBSEY. 

iugs and apparatus used in tlie raanufticture of gas. New 
York, Philadelphia and thirty-four of the principal cities in 
the United States have been supplied from this establishment. 
It consumes annually 16,000 tons of iron, and produces over 
$1,000,000 worth of machinery.* 

26. The manufacture of fine porcelain ware was begun in 
a small way in Jersey City about the year 1835. In 1852 
the Trenton potteries were established, and the extensive 
manufacture of porcelain door-knobs and trimmings began. 

27. In 1866 the village of Marion was founded, and the 
United States Watch Company was established there. The 
company erected a large iron and glass building for the 
manufacture of watches, and dwellings for the accommoda- 
tion of workmen. At this place six hundred hands are 
employed, producing one hundred and fifty watches a day of 
fifty-six diftei-ent styles, valued at $11,250, and equal in 
mechanism and finish to any made in America. 

28. The extensive marl-beds found along the coast, and in 
many places in the interior of the State, are sources of great 
wealth. The marl when spread on the sandy soil of the 
lower counties greatly increases its productiveness. Green- 
sand marl was first used as a fertilizer in Monmouth county, 
in 1768. An Irishman employed in ditching a meadow on 
Peter Schenck's farm, near Marlboro', discovered a marl-bed. 

* Tliere are 42 forges and bloomaries in the State, nearly all of 
which are in the counties of Sussex and Morris. The oldest of these, 
the Petersburg Forge, near Milton, was erected about the year 1725. 
There are eleven blast-furnaces, as follows: in Sussex county there are 
5 ; in Passaic, 3 ; Morris, 1 ; Warren, 1 ; Cumberland, 1. There are 
fifteen rolling-mills: In Morris county, 5; Mercer, 2; Passaic, 3; 
Hudson, 2; Warren, 1; Camden, 1; Cumberland, 1. There are seven 
steel-works: In Essex, 3; Morris, 2; Passaic, 1; Mercer, 1. 

26. Where is 2:)orcelain made? 

27. Where are watches made? 

28. What is said of the use of marl ? 



MARL. 237 

A small quantity was taken out and spread on a field, where 
it produced a marked effect in the growth of the crop. In 
1795 marl was dug on Hop Brook and used on the farm 
owned by John H. Smock, and soon came into general use in 
that neighborhood. It was not until about the beginning of 
the present century that the value of marl began to attract 
the attention of farmers in all the sandy region of the State. 
Its use spread rapidly, until in many places the most sterile 
soils were made productive, and waste places were converted 
into vast fruit and vegetable gardens that enriched their 
owners and added millions of dollars to the wealth of the 
State. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

The Rebellion. 




PHILIP KKARNET. 



1. During the political camjiaign that preceded the Presi- 
dential election in 1860, leading men in the South declared, 
that if Abraham Lincoln were elected President of the 
United States, the Southern States would secede from the 
Union. 

2. South Carolina was the first to put this suicidal threat 
into execution. On the 20th of December, 1860, a conven- 
tion of delegates elected by the voters of that State adopted 
an "Ordinance of Secession," wherein it was declared that 
the State was no longer under the authority of the national 
government. Other States followed this example, and before 
the close of the administration of James Buchanan seven 

Chapter XXIII. — 1. "What threats were made in 18G0? 
2. How were these carried out? 
238 



THE REBELLION. 239 

had seceded from the Union. In February, 1861, delegates 
from the seceded States assembled in Montgomery, Alabama, 
adopted a constitution, appointed Jefferson Davis President 
and Alexander H. Stephens Vice President, and organized a 
government called the " Confederate States of America." 

3. The conspirators rapidly organized armed forces, seized 
the mints, custom-houses, arsenals, navy-yards, forts and 
other property of the national government in the Southern 
States, and on the 12th of April began the bombardment of 
Fort Sumter in Charleston harbor. The garrison made an 
heroic defence, lasting three days, and then on the 15th sur- 
rendered the fort to the enemy. 

4. The news of this attack on the national troops created 
the most intense excitement throughout the whole country. 
On the 15th of April, the day on which the garrison surren- 
dered, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, is- 
sued a proclamation calling for 75,000 volunteer troops to 
defend the Union. The people of the North laid aside all 
political disputes, and with great unanimity resolved to sus- 
tain the government. 

5. " New Jersey, from her revolutionary battle-fields, an- 
swered the Nation's call with eager pledges of help. The 
old flag, displayed aforetime only on fair holidays when no 
storms beat, flung out its folds in every town and hamlet and 
over secluded country homes, and became a perpetual sign 
of covenant-keeping faithfulness — a pledge to all the world 
that the cause it symbolized should be maintained at what- 
ever cost. In every town and village the people, assembled 
in public meetings, pledged their utmost resources in behalf 
ef the imperiled government. The banks came forward 

3. What did the conspirators do ? 

4. What effect had the capture of Fort Sumter on the Northern peo- 
ple ? What did the President do ? 

5. W^hat was done in New Jersey ? 



240 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

with liberal offers of money ; leading citizens proffered their 
assistance to the authorities ; every fireside shone with the 
lustre of patriotic feelings, and even the schools shared in the 
absorbing excitement. It was a carnival of patriotism from 
one end of the State to the other." * 

6. New Jersey's quota of troops under the President's call 
was four regiments, of 780 men each. Governor Olden f re- 
ceived the requisition of the War Department on the 17th, 
and immediately issued a proclamation for volunteers to 
report within twenty days. The people everywhere promptly 
responded to the call ; the organized companies in the State 
opened recruiting-stations ; 2)ublic meetings were held in 
every town and city to assist enlistments ; the churches en- 
tered earnestly into the work, many sending full companies 
into the ranks ; and everywhere the popular heart beat 
strongly in favor of the Union. Within a few days over one 
hundred companies, exceeding ten thousand men, offered 
their services to the governor. The first regiment of the 
Hunterdon Brigade reported for duty on the 18th of April, 
and was the first organized body of troops ready for service. 
The Camden Zouaves reported on the same day. Many offers 
of individual services came from citizens who afterward were 
distinguished in the field. | The Olden Guards of Trenton, 

* " New Jersey and the Rebellion," by Jobn Y. Foster. 

f Charles S. Olden, a distinguisbed citizen of tbe State, was elected 
governor in 1859. He was experienced in public affairs, and eminently 
qualified for tbe high office be beld in tiiis trying period of tbe nation's 
history. 

X Joseph W. Revere, George D. Bayard, Judson Kilpatrick, William 
S. Truex, William Cook, H. W. Sawyer, J. H. Simpson, William B. 
Hatch, Mark B. Collett, Mrs. Kitty K. Painter were among those who 
first tendered their services to Governor Olden. 

6. What was the quota of tbe State under the first call ? How were 
these troops raised? What troops were first enrolled? 



TROOPS FOR THE REBELLION. 241 

mustered into the service on the 23d of April, were the first 
enrollment from this State for the National army. So rapidly 
had the volunteers come forward that on the 30th of the 
month the quota was completed and the regiments stood ready 
to march. 

7. The State authorities took active measures to strengthen 
the defences on the Delaware and to protect the numerous 
inlets on the coast. Organized companies were offered for 
garrison duty in the forts on the Delaware and in New York 
harbor, and every effort was made to put the commonwealth 
in a complete state of defence. An extra session of the Leg- 
islature was called by Governor Olden to meet on the 30th 
of April. This Legislature, upon the recommendation of 
the governor, appropriated $2,000,000, and levied an annual 
tax of $100,000 for military purposes. The common council 
of Newark voted $100,000 to the families of soldiers and 
$5000 for equipments. The banks throughout the State 
placed $451,000 at the disposal of the governor. Among 
the individual subscriptions made may be named those of 
Sophia and Esther Stevens, each of whom on the 29th of 
April sent to the governor $1000; and within a month after 
the firing on Fort Sumter these private subscriptions ex- 
ceeded one million dollars. 

8. Theodore Runyon, of Newark, was appointed brigadier- 
general of the brigade organized for the National service. 
When the brigade had been fully organized, a despatch was 
received from the Secretary of War, stating that the govern- 
ment could not furnish equipments and arms for the troops. 
The State authorities thereupon resolved to supply the defi- 
ciency of the National government, and to send forward the 

7. What did the State authorities do? What did Newark do for the 
soldiers' families? What was contributed by private citizens? 

8. Who was appointed to command the First Brigade? How were 
these troops armed and equipped? 

21 Q 



242 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

troops clothed,* armed and fully equipped for active service. 
Governor Olden desj)atclied a messenger on the 1st of May to 
General Butler, commanding at Annapolis, informing him 
that the New Jersey Brigade would leave the State on the 
first, second and third of that month, and urged him to make 
arrangements to receive them and to promote their comfort. 
As the troops were about to move, it was found that the gov- 
ernment could not even so much as supply ammunition. A 
messenger was sent to New York, and after the most persist- 
ent efforts succeeded in obtaining five thousand musket-ball 
cartridges and one hundred thousand percussion caps. These 
were immediately shipped after the regiments that had already 
gone forward, and were distributed to the men on board the 
steamers on Delaware Bay. 

9. The troops arrived at Washington on the 6th of May, 
and went into such quarters as could be hastily provided for 
them. The arrival of these three thousand Jerseymen, thor- 
oughly armed and equipped, inspired a feeling of security 
in the Departments at Washington that had not been felt 
for many days. New Jersey never stood higher in the esti- 
mation of the loyal peojole of the country than at that junc- 
ture, when she sent to the nation's defence a full brigade of 
troops in every particular prepared for immediate action. 

10. After a few days the brigade was ordered to go into 
camp at Meridian Hill : here the service of camp-duty 

* Tlie First Kegiment was clothed at Newark at the expense of the 
State. The Second Regiment was mostly clothed by a committee of 
liberal and isatriotic gentlemen of Jersey City at their own expense, 
without any instructions or authority from the State. The Third and 
Fourth Regiments were clotiied entirely by the State. 

9. When did the brigade arrive in Washington? How was it 
received ? 

10. Where did the regiment encamp? What was the first service 
performed ? 



BATTLE OF BULL RUN. 243 

began. The severest discipline was enforced, and the troops 
were required to observe the strictest regulations of army life. 
On the 24th the brigade crossed Long Bridge into Virginia 
and encamped along the heights south of the Potomac. The 
work of entrenching the camps and of building redoubts was 
immediately begun. The principal work constructed by the 
Jersey men was named Fort Runyon, and was known by that 
name during the war. 

11. On the 3d of May the President called for thirty-nine 
regiments of infantry and one of cavalry, to serve for three 
years or during the war. The quota of New Jersey under 
this call was three regiments. So enthusiastic had been the 
response to the first call for troops that nearly five thousand 
men who could not be received in the New Jersey quota had 
gone to New York and enterSd the service from that State, 
and almost a sufiicient number of organized companies now 
stood I'eady to fill the quota under this second call. The 
troops were received at Camp Olden near Trenton, and organ- 
ized into regiments. These regiments were clothed and fur- 
nished with camp and garrison equipage by the State, and 
were armed by the General Government. They left Trenton 
on the 28th of June, and reported to General Scott at Wash- 
ington City on the following day. 

12. In the disposition of troops on the 15th of July for 
the advance against the enemy at Bull Run, the New Jersey 
Brigade and all other troops held in reserve were placed 
under the command of General Runyon. When the main 
army was defeated on the 21st of July, and fell back in dis- 
order and confusion, the New Jersey Brigade, together with 
the First, Second and Third three-year regiments, advanced 

11. When was the second call for troops made ? What was the quota 
of the State? How was the quota filled? 

12. What position was assigned to the New Jersey troops in the 
movement against Bnll Rnn? 



244 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

in good order to Centreville, where their presence and cool- 
ness gave confidence to many of the ileeing fragments of 
companies, and induced them to form in the rear of these 
troops. Thus a strong rear-guard was organized for the protec- 
tion of the trains of the retreating army. Before live o'cloclv 
in tlie afternoon the stampede was stopped, the road was 
cleared, the army-wagons halted, and order had come out of 
chaos, mainly through the efforts of the New Jersey regiments. 

13. The First Regiment was thrown forward beyond Cen 
treville to resist tlie advance of the enemy, in case it should 
be attempted. After the whole army had fallen back the 
troops were withdrawn and reached Fort Albany, near Alex- 
andria, on the afternoon of the 22d, having been on duty 
thirty hours without provisions. Many of the men dropped 
down exhausted beneath the shelter of fences and trees, 
whence they were afterward rescued by their comrades. The 
term of service of the First Brigade had now expired, and 
the men were accordingly mustered out on the 25th. They 
returned to the State, but many of them re-enlisted and 
served in other regiments during the war. 

14. After the disaster at Bull Run another call came from 
the National capital for troops. The quota of the State was 
placed at five regiments. These Avere named resjDectively the 
Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth regiments. The 
Fourth Regiment reached Washington on the 21st of August 
and Avas assigned to the brigade commanded by Brigadier 
General Kearney,* and with the First, Second and Third 

* Philip Kearney was born June 2, 1815. He graduated at Colum- 
bia College, New York, studied law, and at the age of twenty-one was 
commissioned a lieutenant in the regiment of dragoons for service on 

13. What part did they take in the battle? 

14. What occurred after the battle of Bull Eun ? What was tlie 
State's quota under this call ? How was it filled? AVho commanded 
tliese brigades? 



PHILIP KEARNEY. 245 

regiments composed the First Brigade of New Jersey volun- 
teers. The Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth regiments were 
organized into the Second Brigade of New Jersey volun- 
teers, under the command of Colonel Samuel H. Starr. 

the Western frontier. In 1S40 he was sent by the United States govern- 
ment to the military school in France. He accompanied the Frencli 
army to Africa, and distinguished himself in two engagements. After 
returning from France he was attached to General Scott's headquarters. 
He served witli distinction through the Mexican war, and for gallant 
conduct was promoted to the rank of major. After having served 
several years in Indian wars he resigned his commission and went to 
Europe. In 1859, during the Italian war, he was aide-de-camp on the 
staff of General Morris, commanded the cavalry of the Guard and was 
present at the battle of Solferino. In consideration of the services 
rendered in this campaign, the Empei'or Napoleon conferred on him 
the Cross of the Legion of Honor. When the rebellion broke out in 
America, Major Kearney instantly abandoned his life of ease and luxury 
in Europe, and hastened to the defence of his country. He was com- 
missioned a brigadier-general, and assigned to the command of the First 
Brigade of the New Jersey three-year regiments. In front of the 
enemy south of the Potomac, Kearney soon attracted a large share of 
public attention. In the advance against the enemy at Manassas, in 
the Peninsular campaign and during the series of terrible battles that 
ended at Malvern Hill, no general officer was more conspicuous in the 
thickest of the fight than brave Gener.al Kearney. In Pope's campaign 
the commanding general again found a hearty support in the New 
Jersey troops under this gallant officer. After the National army had 
been defeated on Manassas Plains and driven across Bull Bun with 
heavy los.s, and wlien General Lee had resolved to crush the retreating 
troops before they had reached the Potomac, General Pope determined 
to make another desperate stand, and in this he resolved to trust only 
such officers as had never failed in the severest duty. Kearney, Reno 
and Stevens were placed in the most trying positions. The New .Jersey 
troops had been sl)attered and thinned by the severe struggles they had 
just passed through, but with Kearney as their leader they were still a 
strong arm of defence. On the first of September the enemy made a 
bold flank attack on Beno, near Ciiantilly, in order to seize the road 
leading to Washington. Beno and Stevens made a desperate resistance, 
21 * 



246 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

15. Though the people of New Jersey Avere wholly unpre- 
pared for war, without a military establishment or men expe- 
rienced in military duty, yet, by the energy of the officers of 
its government, and the skill and patriotism of its people, 
it was enabled to respond promptly to every call for assist- 
ance from the General Government. During the year 1861 
the State equipped and sent forward thirteen regiments at an 
expense of $665,303. In addition to this there were numer- 
ous instances of independent action by communities and indi- 
viduals. The jmtriotic women of Newark organized a relief 
association on the 24th of April, 1861, to provide conve- 
niences for the soldiers and delicacies for the sick, that could 
not be supplied by the government. The women of Jersey 
City formed a similar association at about the same time, and 
these noble examples Avere speedily followed in other places. 
In 1863 the " United States Sanitary Commission for New 
Jersey" was formed. During the first year of its operations 

but were driven back by overpowering numbers. General Stevens fell, 
flag in hand and cheering on his men, in the very front of the line. 
At the moment the National forces were giving way. General Kearney 
appeared on the field. With characteristic impetuosity he hurled his 
columns of Jerseymen against the lines of the enemy, ordered his bat- 
teries to fire with double canister, and placing himself at the head of 
the charging column, rushed upon the enemy. He broke tlirough the 
centre of his lines and hurled it back in disorder and confusion. Thus 
he rescued Pope's army and saved the National capital. Soon after 
sunset the general was riding forward to examine the position of his 
troops, and unexpectedly came upon the enemy. He was summoned to 
surrender, but refusing, was shot dead. The death of no soldier during 
the war created more profotmd regret and deeper grief, nor was the loss 
of any one more deeply lamented, than that of the heroic Kearney, who 
nobly died that the nation might live. 

15. What was the military status of the State at the beginning of the 
war? How were the demands on the State met? What was done 
during the first year? What private action was taken? What contri- 
butions were made? 



BR AVERT OF JERSEY TROOPS. 247 

the Commission collected for the relief of the soldiers, in 
money and supplies, $128,806.85. Nine hundred and thirty 
boxes of jjrovisions and goods were sent from the State to the 
army, about $50,000 were contributed to the great fair at 
Philadelphia, and $20,000 were sent by local societies through 
other channels. The contributions, as far as it is possible to 
state them, were as follows : of supplies, Elizabeth gave 
$7755; Boonton, $4140; Salem, $4136; Millville, $2062; 
Plainfield, $4322; Paterson, $3122; Rahway, $2328; 
Somerville, $2216; AVoodstown, $1598; Lodi, $1616; 
Montclair, $1793, and Schralenburg, $1838. The contribu- 
tions in money were, from Newark, $7052 ; Jersey City, 
$5566; Hoboken, $1050, and Pequaunock township, $1015. 
There were many liberal contributions made by the citizens 
of other towns not here named, for the patriotism and liber- 
ality that actuated the people of New Jersey during the 
period of the nation's struggle for life was not bounded by 
political divisions, nor confined to party, faction, sect or con- 
dition : the action of the people in all parts of the State was 
generous and prompt. The Legislature authorized the au- 
thorities of Newark, Trenton, Jersey City, Rahway, Camden 
and Bordentown to appropriate money for the support of 
soldiers' families. This and many other acts of devotion to 
the Union cause consumed large sums of money that cannot 
be fully estimated. The patriotic women of the State were 
also represented in the field. Several won distinction as 
nurses in the hospitals at Washington, and as agents of the 
Sanitary Commission in the Army of the Potomac. 

16. During the four years of war New Jersey was called 
upon for 78,248 men. In response to these several calls it 
sent into the field 88,305, or 10,057 more men than its pro- 

16. How many troops were called for? How were the calls an- 
swered ? 



248 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

portion of the contril^utions for the war.* The Legislature 
also appropriated money for the support of the families of 
the men who entered the service, and for this purpose 
$2,317,374 were spent. 

17. Most of these troops were sent to the Army of the 
Potomac, where they participated in all the campaigns and 
battles through which that great army passed, in its efforts to 
defend the National capital and to overthrow the power of 
the enemy at Richmond. The New Jersey regiments, here 
and in the West, are frequently mentioned in the official re- 
ports of the several commanders, and are commended for 
gallant conduct under the most trying circumstances. The 
troops of no State made a more honorable record for devotion 
to the National Union or for skill and bravery in the field. 

18. Many regiments from New York and the New England 
States, on their way to and from the seat of war, passed 
through this State. The citizens along the lines of the rail- 

* The following statement exhibits tlie number of men called for, and 
the number furnished by this State, and the term of enlistment, from 
April 17, 1861, to April 30, 1865: 

Number men furnished for four years 155 

" " " three " 42,573 

" two " 2,243 

" " " one year 16,812 

" " " nine months 10,787 

" " " three months 3,105 

" " " one hundred days 700 

" " not classified 2,973 

Credited to State 79,348 

Furnished, but not credited 8,957 88,305 



Total number of men called for 78,248 



Surplus over all calls 10,057 



17. What is said of these troops? 

18. How were troops passing through the State treated? 



CHARACTER OF THE PEOPLE. 249 

roads spared no efforts to minister to the wants of these 
troops, and everywhere cheered on the patriot soldiers who 
were hastening to the front, or who, having honorably served 
their country, were returning home from the toils of war. 

19. The term of office of Governor Olden expired in 1863, 
when Joel Parker was inaugurated governor of the common- 
wealth. Governor Parker, though not agreeing in political 
vicAvs with his predecessor, was a true patriot, and administered 
the affairs of the State in the full interest of the National 
cause, vigorously carrying out the war policy inaugurated by 
Governor Olden.* In 1865 an act was passed providing for 
the establishing of "The Soldiers' Children's Home" to sup- 
port and educate the destitute children of soldiers. In the 
following year a Home for Disabled Soldiers was established 
at Newark, and money was appropriated by the Legislature 
to remove the bodies of the New Jersey soldiers from the 
battle-fiekls to the National cemeteries. 

20. It is now 252 years since the first settlements were 
made in the north-eastern part of the State by the Dutch ; 
205 years since the establishment of the government of East 
Jersey ; 193 years since the establishment of the government 

* Governor Pnrker was ever attentive to the wants of the State 
troops — frequently visited the army and personally inspected the regi- 
ments. He established agencies at Washington and in Philadelphia 
to attend to the interests of the soldiers, and despatched a messenger to 
examine into tlie condition of the New Jersey regiments in the Western 
army. When Pennsylvania was invaded in 1863, he forwarded troops 
with great promptness to Harrisbnrg to aid in the defence of that State. 
No call was made on the State for assistance, during his administration, 
that was not cheerfully and promptly met. 

19. What is said of Governor Parker? What was done for the 
soldiers ? 

20. What is the age of the oldest settlements? What of the Prov- 
ince? Of the commonwealth ? What is said of the character of the 
people? 



250 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

of West Jersey; 167 years since the merging of the two 
Provinces into one under the crown, and 93 years since the 
organization of the commonwealth. The inhabitants of New 
Jersey were early noted for the observance of the principles 
of peace, and for strict justice in dealing with the Indian 
tribes found in the territory. Though they had much less to 
fear from British taxation on American commerce than any 
of their neighboi's, they were not surpassed in devotion to the 
cause of human rights, nor in promptness to defend personal 
liberty and to adopt the principles of the Declaration of In- 
dependence, by the people of any other Province. 

21. The public men of New Jersey were conspicuous dur- 
ing the Revolutionary struggle, and made large contributions 
to that wisdom in council and bravery in the field that suc- 
cessfully maintained the cause of the colonies against the 
power of the British government. New Jersey was the only 
State wherein the National Constitution was adopted unani- 
mously and without amendment. In making early provision 
for the education of the young, in establishing public tho- 
roughfares and undertaking the construction of vast public 
improvements, the inhabitants of this State have ever evinced 
a degree of skill and energy equal to that of any other peoj)le. 
The early settlers were noted for their rigid piety, and their 
descendants have maintained an honorable reputation for a 
liberal support of religious, educational and philanthropic 
institutions. 

21. What is said of tlie public men of New Jei'sey? Of tlie adop- 
tion of the Constitution ? Of the people? 



APPENDIX. 



TABLE I. 

Comities in New Jersey. 

Counties. When Formed. ropuLAxioN in IStiO. County Towns. 

Salem 1675 22,458 Salein. 

Gloucester 1677 18,444 Woodbury. 

Bergen 1682 21,618 Hackensack. 

Middlesex 1682 34,812 New Brunswick. 

Somerset 1688 22,057 Sornerville. 

Burlington 1694 49,730 Mount Holly. 

Essex 1710 98,887.. Newark. 

Monmouth 1710 89,346 Freehold. 

Cape May 1710 7,130 Cape May Court-house. 

Hunterdon 1714 33,654 Flemington. 

Morris 1739 34,677 Morristown. 

Cumberland 1748 22,605 Bridgeton. 

Sussex 1753 23,846 Newton. 

Warren 1824 28.433 Belvidere. 

Passaic 1837 29,013 Paterson. 

Atlantic 1837 11,786 May's Landing. 

Mercer 1838 37,418 Trenton. 

Hudson 1840 62,717 Jersey City. 

Camden 1844 34,457 Camden. 

Ocean 1850 11,176 Tom's Kiver. 

Union 1857 27,780 Elizabeth City. 

Population: 1790, 184,139— 11,423 slaves; 1800, 211,949— 12,422 slaves; 
1810, 245,555—10,851 " 1820, 277,575— 7,357 " 
1830, 320,823— 2,254 " 1840, 373,306— 674 " 
1850,489,555— 236 " 1860,672,035- 30 " 
Total vote for President in 1868, 163,122; 1864, 136,048; 1860, 

121,125; 1856, 99,396; 1852, 83,283; 1848, 77,765; 1844, 76,944; 

1840, 64,385 ; 1836, 51,729 ; 1832, 47,249 ; 1828, 45,708. 

251 



252 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 



TABLE II. 

Table of the Governors of the Colonies, of the Provinces and 
of the State. 

Access. Exit 

1614. Carstiansen (first Dutch governor) 

1624. Peter Minuit (Governor of New Netherlands) 

1633. Woiitcr Van Twiller (Governor of New Netheriands) 1638 

1638. Wm. Keift (Governor of New Netherlands) 1646 

1642. Col. John Printz (Governor of New Sweden) 1653 

1646. Peter Stuyvesant ( " " New Netherlands) 1664 

1664. Philip Carteret (first English governor) 1676 

1674. Major Edmund Andross (appointed by Duke of York) 1676 

Division into East Jersey and West Jersey. 

KA.ST JERSEY. 

1676. Philip Carteret 1682 

1682. Robert Barclay (Proprietary Governor in England) 1690 

1682. Thomas Rudyard (Deputy Governor) 1683 

1683. Gawen Lawrie " •' 1686 

1686. Lord Neill Campbell " " 1687 

1687. Andrew Hamilton '•' " 1688 

1688. Edmund Andro.ss (Royal Governor New York) 1689 

1690. John Tatham (Proprietary Governor; rejected by Province). 1690 

1691. Col. Joseph Dudley " " " " " 1691 

1692. Andrew Hamilton 1697 

1698. Jeremiah Basse 1699 

1699. Andrew Bowne (Deputy Governor) 1699 

1099. Andrew Hamilton 1702 

WEST JERSEY. 

1676. Board of Commissioners 

1679. Edward Byllinge (Governor) 1687 

'1679. Samuel Jennings (Deputy Governor) 1684 

1684. Thomas Olive " " 1085 

1685. John Skeine " " 1687 

1687. Daniel Coxe (Governor) , 1690 

1690. Edward Hunloke (Deputy Governor) 169C 



APPENDIX. 253 

Access. Exit. 

1691. "West Jersey Society of Proprietors" 1691 

1692. Andrew Hamilton 1697 

1697. Jeremiali Basse (both Provinces) 1699 

1699. xindrew Hamilton 1702 

PROVINCE OF NEW JERSEY UNDER THE CROWN. 

1702. Lord Cornbury * 1708 

1708. Lord Lovelace* 1709 

1709. Richard Ingoldsby (Lieutenant-governor) 1710 

1710. Robert Hunter* 1720 

1720. Wm. Burnett* 1727 

1728. John Montgoraerie* 1731 

1731. Lewis Morris (President of Council) 1732 

1732. Wm. Crosby* 1736 

1736. John Anderson (President of Council) 1736 

1736. John Hamilton " " " 1738 

1738. Lewis Morris 1746 

1746. John Hamilton (President) 1746 

1746. John Beading " 1747 

1747. Jonathan Belcher 1757 

1757. John Beading (President) 1758 

1758. Francis Bernard 1760 

1760. Thomas Boone 1761 

1761. Josiah Hardy 1763 

1763. Wm. Temple Franklin 1776 

GOVERNORS UNDER THE CONSTITUTION. 

1776. Wm. Livingston 1790 

1791. Wm. Paterson 1793 

1794. Richard Howell 1801 

1801. Joseph Bloomfield 1802 

1802. John Lambert (President) 1803 

1803. Joseph Bloomfield 1812 

1812. Aaron Ogden 1813 

1813. Wm. S. Pennington 1815 

1815. Mahlon Dickerson 1817 

••• Governor-in-chief of New York and New Jersey. 
22 



254 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

Access. Exit. 

1817. Isaac H. Williamson 1829 

1829. Peter D. Vrooni, Jr 1832 

1832. Elias P. Seeley 1833 

1833. Peter D. Vroom 1836 

1836. Philemon Dickerson 1837 

1837. Wm. Pennington 1843 

1843. Daniel Haines 1844 

1844. Chas. C. Stratton 1848 

1848. Daniel Haines 1851 

1851. Geo. F, Fort 1854 

1854. Kodman M. Price 1857 

1857. Wm. A.Newall 1860 

1860. Chas. S. Olden 18G3 

1863. Joel Parker 1866 

1866. Marcus L. Ward 1869 

1869. Theodore F. Randolph 



APPENDIX. 255 



TABLE III. 

ToMe of the Principal Officers of the United States from New 
Jersey, since the Adoption of the Constitution. 

PRESIDENT CONTINENTAL CONGRESS. 

Term of Service. 
Elias Boudinot 1782-1783 

SECRETARIES OP THE NAVY. 

Samuel L. Southard 1823-1829 

Mahlon Dickerson 1834-1838 

Win. M. Eobeson 1869- 

ASSOCIATE JUDGE OP THE SUPRE5IE COURT OF THE UNITED 

STATES. 

William Paterson 1793-1806 

PRESIDENT OP THE SENATE. 

Samuel L. Southard 1841-1842 

SPEAKERS OP THE HOUSE OP REPRESENTATIVES. 

Jonathan Daytou 1795-1798 

William Pennington 1860-1861 

MINISTERS PLENIPOTENTIARY AND RESIDENT. 

J. P. Stockton, Minister Kesident. Rome 1858 

Wm. L. Dayton, Minister Plenipotentiary. Paris.. 1861-1864 
Judson Kilpatrick, Minister Resident. Chili 1865 



256 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

TABLE IV. 

Railroads in Netv Jersey. 

Name of Company. Cost. Length. 

Caimlen and Amboy $11,221,696 63 64 

New Jer.sey 7,341,277' 93 33 

Perth Amboy and Woodbridge 214,581 57 CJ 

Millstone and New Brunswick 109,918 42 Q,^^\ 

Kocky Hill E. K. and Transportation Co... 45,008 71 

Freehold and Jamesburg Agricultural 329,305 42 

Belvidere Delaware 3,914,895 68 64 

Flemington R. K. and Transijortation Co.. 389,922 12.G 

Peniberton and Ilightstown 533,785 75 

Camden and Burlington Co 710,962 50 

Vincenttown Branch of Burlington County 

E. R. and Transportation Co 45,256 61 

West Jersey 1,840,303 78 47 

Cape May and Millville 873,5-55 93 

Salem 278,327 80 

Northern 525,563 12 21 

Paterson and Hudson Eiver 630,000 l^ 

Hackensack and New York 191,245 88 

Paterson and Eamapo 350,000 15 

Central 10,234,725 81 64 

South Brancli 435,249 04 

Warren 2,000,000 18 

Sus.sex 474,400 

Morris and Essex 15,002,013 62 53 

Ogden Mine 450,000 

Hibernia Mine 55,000 

Newark and Bloomfield 103,850 

Earitan and Delaware Bay 4,098,592 45 

Long Branch and Sea Shore 223,440 53 

Camden and Atlantic 2,062,101 95 60 



APPENDIX. 



257 



TABLE V. 

Canals in Neiv Jersey. 

Name op Company. Cost. 

Delaware and Raritan $4,580,394 70 

Morris Canal and Banking Co 3,408,224 06 



Length. 
65^ 
102 



TABLE VI. 



Agricultural Products of New Jersey in 1868. 



Products. 



Indian corn. ..bushels. 

Wheat do — 

Eye do 

Oats do 

Barley do 

Buckwheat do 

Potatoes do 

Tobacco pounds. 

Hay tons. 

Total 



a. 




o 


&i 


o . 


t: 


■VhOO 


'i> . 


o'=o 








■^ i-H 


a; o 


S o 


6C rt 


a 


01 

> 


< 


< 

37.5 


10,216,000 


1,432,000 


13.9 


1,358,000 


13.5 


6,368,000 


22.4 


26,000 


22.9 


852,000 


16.7 


3,670,000 


97 


150,000 


700 


486,000 


1.40 







a; 


'3 . 


a o 


S s 


^3 


J o 


't "^ 


^ :- 


0) K 




^ OJ 


0) 


S C 




5 .fH 


c3 -is 


^ 


^ 


272,426 


$0 9.^ 


103,021 


2 11 


100,592 


150 


239,642 


69 


1,135 


155 


51,017 


128 


37,835 


97 


214 


10.5 


347,142 


19 00 


1,153,024 





$10,113,840 
3,021,520 
2,037,000 
3,703,920 

40,300 
1,090,560 
3,559,900 

15,750 
9,234,000 

32,816,790 



COTTON MANUFACTURES IN 1868. 
Mills, 30 ; spindles, 175,042 ; average yarn, No. 32| 
10,767,600 pounds; average per spindle, 61.51 pounds. 

22 « R 



cotton spun, 



258 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

TABLE VII. 

A Chronolofjlcal Table of Important Events in the History 
of Neiv Jersey, from the Discovery of the Delaivare in 1609 
xmtil 1869. 

1609. Delaware Bay discovered by Henry Pludson. Hudson anchored 
at "Half Moon" Avithin Sandy Hook, September 3. 

IGIO. The Dutch establish trading posts on Manhattan Island and at 
Albany. 

1617. Bergen settled by Danes. 

1621. The West India Company organized to settle New Netherland. 

1623. Tlie Dutch build Fort Nassau on the Delaware. 

1624. Peter Minuit appointed governor of the New Netherlands. 

1633. Wouter Van Twiller governor of the New Netherlands. 

1634. Charles I. granted charter to Lord Palatine Plowden of New 

Albany, extending fi'om Long Island to Pennsylvania, Jan- 
nary 21. 
1638. \Vm. Keift becomes governor of the New Netherlands. First 
permanent settlement of Swedes on the Delaware. 

1642. Col. .lolin Printz appointed governor of " New Sweden." 

1643. Fort Elsingburg built on the east bank of the Delaware by the 

Swedes. 
1646. Peter Stuyvesant governor of the New Netherlands. 
1648. Six families settled at Middletown. 

1654. Swedish settlements on the Delaware subjugated by the Dutch. 
1661. First ferry established at Coramunipaw. 

1664. Dutch possessions conquered by the English. Deeded by 

Charles II. to Duke of York. New Jersey granted by Duke 
of York to Lord John Berkeley and Sir George Carteret, 
June 24. " Concessions" of the Proprietors published Feb- 
ruary 10. Philip Carteret appointed governor of New Jersey, 
February 10 (Old Style ; New Style, 1665). Site of Elizabeth- 
town, first permanent English settlement in New Jersey, pur- 
chased from the Indians by the " Elizabethtown Associates," 
October 28 ; land granted by Governor Nichols, December 2. 
Shrewsbury settled. 

1665. Swedes on Delaware submitted to Sir Robert Carr. First church 

established at Elizabethtown by Congregationalists and Inde- 



APPENDIX. 259 

pendents; enlarged, 1760; burned January 25, 1780. Gov- 
ernor Carteret arrived in Elizabethtown with tliirty settlers, 
August. 

1666. Newark settled by tliirty fomilies from Branford, Connecticut, 

under Eev. Mr. Pierson, May 17. Middletown and Piscata- 
way settled. 

1667. Woodbridge directed to be laid out, December 3. Site of Newark 

purchased from Indians, July 11. Courts of justice instituted 
in Monmouth county under authority of Col. Nichols. 

1668. Meeting-house built at Newark. Session of first Legislative 

Assembly of New Jersey at Elizabethtown, May 26. Second 
session, November 3. Bergen chartered, September 22. Grant 
of 276 acres issued for Hoboken, May 12. 

1669. Woodbridge chartered, June 16. Township erected, June 1. 

1670. First settlement of Friends' Meeting in East .Jersey, at Shrews- 

bury. First monthly meeting held. Presbyterian congrega- 
tion formed in Woodbridge. First grist-mill erected at Wood- 
bridge. 

1672. First Friends' meeting-house built at Shrewsbury. 

1673. Berkeley sold West Jersey to John Fenwick and Edward Byl- 

linge, March 18. Dutch recover New Netherlands and New 
Jersey. 

1674. New Jersey surrendered to the English by the treaty of Feb- 

ruary 9. West Jersey divided ; one-tenth to Fenwick and 
nine-tenths to Byllinge. Byllinge assigns his nine-tenths to 
Wm. Penn, etc., February 10. Fenwick leases his one-tenth 
to Eldridge and Warner. 

1675. Fenwick sailed from London. Salem, first English colony in 

West Jersey, settled by him in June. First Friends' meeting 
established at Salem. Salem and Cumberland townships 
bought from the Indians. First Baptist congregation at Cape 
May established. Presbyterian meeting-house erected at 
Woodbridge. General Assembly met at Elizabethtown, No- 
vember 5. Courts of justice first established by law. 

1676. Andror.s ordered Fen wick's arrest, November 8. Eldridge and 

Warner conveyed Fenwick's lease to Penn, etc. "Quinti partite 
deed," dividing Province into East Jersey and West Jersey, 
dated July 1 ; the former assigned to Carteret, the latter to 
Penn. " Concessions and Agreements of the Proprietors" of 



260 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

West Jersey issued, and government established, March 3. 
General Assembly at Woodbridge. Vessels cleared from Perth 
Amboy by Carteret. Newark authorized the engagement of 
a schoolmaster, February 7. Col. ISIorris erected iron mills 
at Fenton, Monmouth county. 

1677. Ship "Willing Mind" arrived at Elsingburg with seventy pas- 

sengers. "Martha," from Yorkshire, brought one hundred 
and fourteen passengers. Burlington laid out, and Friends' 
meeting for worship held in tents. Government commission- 
ers arrived in West Jersey. 

1678. "Shield," from Hull, witli 114 passengers, was the first ship that 

ascended the Delaware to Burlington, December. Sir George 
Carteret directed East Jersey to be sold, by will dated De- 
cember 5. Salem and Cohansey laid out into lots, Septem- 
ber 18. 

1679. Amboy declared a free port by Governor Carteret. Death of 

Sir George Carteret. Jennings appointed deputy governor 
by By Hinge. 

1680. Andross arrested Carteret, April 30. Carteret tried and ac- 

quitted. May 27. General Assembly repudiated Andross' 
authority, June 2. Second grant of West Jersey to Proprie- 
tors by Duke of York, August 6 ; grant of East Jersey, Sep- 
tember. Wm. Cooper settled on tract of land between the 
Delaware and Cooper's creek. First voyage from Burlington 
to Barbadoes, by ketch of 50 tons. Friends' meeting estab- 
lished at Amboy. Friends at Salem purchase house for wor- 
ship. First meeting in Burlington county established at Ches- 
terfield, and meeting-house built. Vicinity of Trenton settled 
by Phineas Pemberton. First water-wheel mills in West 
Jersey built at Eancocas creek and at Trenton. 

1681. Assembly met at Elizabethtown. First Assembly met at Bur- 

lington and organized government, November 21. Building 
of the first highway, from Burlington to Salem, authorized. 
Newton meeting settled. First yearly meeting of Friends for 
discipline in this country held at Burlington, June 28. The 
times for religious worship regulated, June 31. Yearly meet- 
ing established at Salem. Women's meetings for business first 
established at Burlington. Site of New Brunswick granted to 
John Inians and company, November 1. 



APPENDIX. 261 

1682. Pliilip Carteret died, December. Deputy-governor Riidyard ap- 
pointed September IG. East Jersey sold to Wm. Penn and 
associates, February 1 and 2. New conveyance of East Jersey 
to twenty-four Proprietors by Duke of York, Marcli 14. Robert 
Barclay appointed governor. Assembly met at Elizabetbtown, 
March 1. Friends' quarterly meeting established in Burling- 
ton county. Six weeks' Friends' meeting held at " William 
Cooper's Pine Point," June 16. First land grant for school 
purposes by act of Assembly (Matenicunk Island), September 
28. Fenwick conveyed title to Governor Penn, March 1. 
First saw-mills built at Salem and Woodbridge. Salem made 
a port of entry. East Jersey divided into four counties, and 
the boundaries defined. 
1683. Friends' meeting-house built at Freehold. Perth Amboy laid 
cut into 150 lots. Death of Fenwick. Ordinary (tavern) 
established at Woodbridge ; first in the Province. Population 
of Shrewsbury, 400; Middletown, 500; Piscataway, 400; 
Woodbridge, 600; Elizabetbtown, 700; Newark, 500; Ber- 
gen, 350. Gawen Lawrie appointed deputy-governor, July. 
1084. Yearly meetings of Society of Friends held alternately at Bur- 
lington and Philadelphia until 1761. Site of Camden occu- 
pied by Messrs. Cooper, Eunyon and Morris. First govern- 
ment house erected at Perth Amboy for Proprietors. Ferry 
across the Raritan, between Perth Amboy and Newark, estab- 
lished. "Long Ferry Tavern" built— first public-house in 
Amboy. 
1685. Death of Charles II., February. Assembly West Jersey acknow- 
ledges John Skeine deputy-governor under Byllinge. St. 
Peter's Episcopal church founded at Perth Amboy ; the first 
in New Jersey. Friends' meeting-house built on Lower AIlo- 
way's creek. Court-house built at Perth Amboy. 
3686. Friends' monthly meeting established at Amboy. First yearly 
meeting at Salem, February 11. Lord Neill Campbell ap- 
pointed governor of East Jersey, June 4. Semi-annual iiiirs 
authorized at Amboy for three days, commencing first Tues- 
days in May and October. 
1687. Death of Byllinge. Dr. Daniel Coxe purchased his interest. 
Collector and receiver of customs commissioned at Perth 
Amboy, November 30. 



262 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

1688. First Baptist church in East Jersey built at Middletown ; also 

occupied by the Qualvcrs. 

1689. Second Baptist church built at Piscataway. Schoolmaster ap- 

pointed in Woodbridge, ]March. 

1690. Death of Governor Barclay, October 3. Baptist church at Co- 

hansey erected. 

1691. West Jersey Society of Proprietors bought Governor Coxe's 

claim for £8000. 

1692. Andrew Hamilton appointed governor of both East and West 

Jersey. Presbyterian church established in Freehold and in 
Woodbridge. "The great flood" in the Delaware. 

1693. Burlington incorporated. Schoolmaster allowed to be appointed 

by townsmen and taxes levied for his support, October 12. 

1694. Custom-house established at Pertli Amboy by Assembly. 

1695. Salem incorporated. Location of schools in towns authorized. 

1696. Kaighn's Point settled. Quakers recommended their brethren 

to refrain from importing slaves. 

1697. First dam in New Jersey erected on Alloway's creek. Presby- 

terian church established at Fairfield, Cumberland county, by 
Connecticut emigrants. 

1698. Rev. Edward Perthuick, first Episcopal minister, arrived at 

Perth Amboy. The sale of liquor forbidden by Assembly at 
semi-annual fairs. 

1699. Andrew Hamilton reappointed governor of both Jerseys. 

1700. Friends' brick meeting-house built at Salem. First lands in 

Morris county bought near Pompton Plains. 

1701. Total population of New Jersey, 15,000. Ten rods of land given 

in Woodbridge for school-house, December. 

1702. Government of New Jersey surrendered to the Crown, April 17, 

and both Provinces united. INIilitia force, 1400 men. New 
constitution established, and Lord Cornbury appointed gov- 
ernor, November 16. 

1703. General Assembly met at Pei'th Amboy, November 10. Corner- 

stone of Episcopal church, Burlington, laid, March 25. First 
Episcopal service at Elizabethtown, November 3. 

1704. Assembly met at Burlington, September 7. Friends' monthly 

meeting established at Woodbridge. Episcopal church built 
at Hopewell. Swedish church built at Raccoon. 

1705. Four-rood road laid out from Salem to Morris river. 



APPENDIX. 263 

1706. St. John's Episcopal church built <it Elizabethtown. First court 

of sessions at Salem, May 17. 

1707. First association of Seventh-day Baptists formed in Piscataway, 

April. 

1708. Governor Cornbury recalled and Lord John Lovelace appointed. 

Congregational church organized at Woodbridge. 

1709. Death of Lord Lovelace. Kecall of Lieutenant-governor In- 

goldsby and appointment of General Hunter. Independent 
meeting-house, tlie first in Middlesex county, built at Wood- 
bridge. Paper-money first issued in New Jersey. Independ- 
ent congregations at Elizabethtown and Newark. 

1710. Presbyterian church established at Hanover, near Whippany, 

Morris county. Iron-works built at Whippany. 

1711. Presbyterian church at Greenwich erected. Episcopal congrega- 

tion formed at Woodbridge. 

1712. Baptist church built at Cape May. 

1713. Duty of £10 laid on every slave imported into the Province. 

Jail erected for Middlesex county. Surveys and purchases at 
Mendham, Chester, Randolph and Mill Brook, Morris county. 

1714. Dutch Eeformed church built in New Brunswick. In Newark 

it was agreed "ye old floor in ye meeting-house should be 
made use of for ye making a floor in ye school-house." 

1715. Baptist church built at Hopewell. 

1716. Assembly convened at Perth Amboy by order of George I., 

April 4. Assembly met at Chesterfield, November 27. 

1717. Svv'edish church built at Penn's Neck. 

1718. Hanover church lot, Morris county, deeded. Assembly met at 

Perth Amboy, January 13. Northern boundary line established 
in latitude 41° 40^ 

1719. St, Peter's Episcopal church begun at Perth Amboy. Friends' 

old meeting-house at Shrewsbury rebuilt. 

1720. Kahway settled. Trenton named after Col. Trent, speaker of 

Assembly. Brick Episcopal church built at Salem. 

1721. Kigid measures adopted against the " Papists." First freestone 

quarried in New Jersey at Newark. Wm. Burnett succeeded 
Governor Hunter. 

1722. Forge built near Dover, Morris county. 

1724. Presbyterian congregation established at Perth Amboy. 

1726. Presbyterian church built in New Brunswick. * 



264 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

1727. Presbyterian church organized at "Westfield. 

1728. John Montgomery appointed governor April 15. 

1730. Lotteries and rafflings for merchandise prohibited. Presbyterian 

churcli organized at Connecticut Farms (now Union). 

1731. Governor Montgomery died, July. 

1732. Wm. Cosby appointed governor, August 1. 

1734. Episcopal church established in Newark. Post-offices opened at 

Trenton, Perth Amboy and Burlington. Line of boats and 
stage-wagons started between New York and Philadelphia, by 
way of Bordentown. Peter Decker built first house in Deck- 
ertown, Sussex county. 

1735. Presbyterian church built at Perth Amboy. 

173G. John Hamilton acting governor. Eev. Aaron Burr (father of 
Hon. Aaron Burr) called to the First Presbyterian church, 
Newark. 

1737. Earthquake in New Jersey. Census-population: West Jersey, 

20,963, and East Jersey, 26,439; total, 47,402, including 3981 
slaves. Deerfield Presbyterian church built. Presbyterian 
church formed at New Providence. 

1738. Executive of New Jersey separated from New York. Lewis 

Morris appointed governor. College founded at Princeton. 
One grist-mill built in Sussex county, on the Flatbrook and 
Delaware. 

1739. Weekly mail established between Philadelphia and New Y'ork, 

across New Jersey, by post-boys. 

1740. Friends' meeting-house at Trenton built. Eev. George Whitfield 

visited Elizabethtown. Presbyterian church. Railway, organ- 
ized. German Valley, Morris county, settled. 

1741. Pittsgrovc Presbyterian church organized. First iron-furnace 

erected in Sussex (now Warren) county, at Oxford. First iron 
run, March 9, 1743. 

1742. Baptist church built at Kings wood. Minisink and Wallpack 

churches built — the first in Sussex county. 

1743. Christ Church, P. E., built in New Brunswick. 

1744. Presbyterian church built in Oxford township, Sussex. 

1745. Census-population: West Jersey, 31,911; East Jersey, 29,472; 

total, 61,383, including 4606 slaves. Quakers in West Jersey, 

6079 ; in East Jersey, 3557. Baptist church built at Hights- 

• town. Presbyterian church, Springfield, organized. Anti- 



APPENDIX. ■* 265 

rent Association formed in Essex and in parts of Middlesex, 
Morris and Somerset counties. 

1746. Governor Morris died, May. 

1747. Jonathan Belcher appointed governor. College of New Jersey 

enlarged and incorporated ; located at Elizabethtown. Bap- 
tist church built at Scotch Plains. Church in German Valley 
built. 

1748. College of New Jersey removed to Newark ; new charter granted. 

Horse-racing "for lucre of gain" declared a nuisance by As- 
sembly. Emanuel German Lutheran church constituted at 
Freasburg by German workmen in the glass-factory. 

1749. Lottery authorized for benefit of New Jersey College, Princeton. 

1750. Trenton Public Library founded. Logtown Presbyterian church 

built. Newton settled by Henry Hanlocken. 

1751. First printing-press in Province established at Woodbridge by 

James Parker. 

1752. Baptist church built at Morristown. Folio edition of Laws of 

Province printed at Woodbridge. 

1753. Sussex county set off from Morris. 

1755. Baptist church built at Salem. College of New Jersey finally 
located at Princeton. Nassau Hall erected for college. Four 
hundred militia from Sussex county drove Indians from Eas- 
ton. Library of College of New Jersey founded. Belvidere 
settled by Eobert Peterson. 

1766. England declared war against France, May 17. Stage-line be- 
tween New York and Philadelphia, by way of Trenton and 
Perth Amboy, started November; time, three days. 

1757. Governor Belcher died, August 31. Death of Rev. Aaron Burr, 

president of New Jersey College. Barracks erected at Bur- 
lington, Trenton, New Brunswick, Amboy and Elizabethtown 
to defend the frontier from Indians. 

1758. Francis Bernard appointed governor, June 13. First annual 

Episcopal convention in New Jersey, November. "New 
American Magazine" began at Woodbridge ; the first periodi- 
cal published in New Jersey. Treaty with the Indians at 
Easton by the governors of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. 

1760. Governor Bernard succeeded by Thomas Boone, July 4. 

1761. Yearly meeting of Society of Friends transferred from Burling- 

ton to Philadelphia. 
2.3 



266 BISTORT OF NEW JERSEY. 

1763. Wm. Franklin commissioned governor. 

1765. Stamp Act passed, March 22. New Jersey delegates attend 

Congress at New York, October 5. School-liouse erected by 
St. Peter's church at Perth Amboy. Friends have 14 meet- 
ings in Burlington, 7 in Gloucester, 4 in Middlesex, 4 in 
Salem, 3 in Monmouth, etc. 169 congregations in New Jer- 
sey : Episcopal, 21 ; Presbyterians, 55 ; Friends, 39 ; Baptists, 
20 ; Dutch Reformed, 21. 

1766. Stamp Act repealed, Marcli 18. First convention of Episcopal 

ministers of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and Phila- 
delphia held at Elizabeth, November. "Plan of Union" 
formed. First medical society in the colonies organized in 
New Jersey, July 23. 

1767. Duty imposed on paper, glass and tea, June 29. 

1769. Hope settled by Moravians from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. 

Episcopal church established at Burlington. 

1770. Rutgers College at New Brunswick chartered, under the name 

j of Queen's College, by George III. First survey made by 

'\ i David Rittenhouse for canal to connect Delaware river with 
■■•-i 

the Hudson. Duties repealed on all articles but tea, 

April 12. 

1772. Site of Camden divided into building lots by Jacob Cooper. 

1774. Cargo of tea destroyed at Greenwich, November 22. First Con- 

tinental Congress met at Philadelphia, September 5. The 
Quakers abolished slavery among themselves. Newark au- 
thorized school-house to be built, March 8. " Committee of 
Correspondence and Inquiry" appointed by Assembly, Feb- 
ruary 8. The first of series of public meetings held at Lower 
Freehold to aid people of Massachusetts, June 6. General 
convention held at New Brunswick to elect delegjjtes to Con- 
tinental Congress, July 21. Public meeting at New Bruns- 
wick appointed General Committee of Correspondence, 
June 21. 

1775. Second Continental Congress assembled in Philadelphia, May 10. 

Washington chosen commander-in-chief, June 15. Restric- 
tions on trade of East and West Jersey imposed by Parlia- 
ment. Assembly unanimously approved proceedings of Con- 
gress, January 11. Newark voted It acres for new academy, 
March 14. Day of fasting, humiliation and prayer appointed 



APPENDIX. 267 

by Congress, July 20. Provincial Congress of New Jersey 
assumed all governmental authority, May 23. 54 companies 
of minutemen authorized, and £3000 raised by taxation. 
Last Provincial Legislature convened by Governor Franklin, 
November IG ; prorogued December 6. 

1776. Fast day observed by the colonies, May 17. Constitution of New 

Jersey adopted, July 2. Governor Franklin declared an 
enemy to his country, May 30. American camp established 
at Perth Amboy by General Mercer, July 4. " First General 
Assembly of the State of New Jersey" met at Princeton, 
. August 27. Wm. Livingston elected first governor of New 

Jersey, August 31. Committee appointed to draft a new con- 
stitution, June 24. Washington retreated through New Jer- 
sey. Headquarters at Hackensack, November 17-21 ; Aquack- 
anonck, 21 ; Newark, 23-27 ; New Brunswick, 30-December 
1; Trenton, 3. Washington crossed the Delaware, December 
8. British occupied Amboy, December 1. Burlington taken 
by Hessians, December 4 ; evacuated, 26. Fort Lee, Bergen 
county, abandoned by General Greene, November 19. Con- 
gress adjourned to Baltimore, December 12. Battle of Tren- 
ton, December 26. 

1777. Battle of Princeton, .January 3. Jersey militia attacked British 

regiment near Railway, Junuary 5. Elizabethtown and 100 
prisoners captured by General IMaxwell. Engagement at 
Millstone creek: British scouting-party routed and stores 
captured. Skirmish near Amboy with British detachment 
under Colonel Preston, January 23. Skirmish at Piscataway 
between 700 Americans and 1000 British, February 1. Fleet 
of boats with supplies for British at New Brunswick fired 
upon near Amboy and five sunk, February 26. Skirmish 
near Bonhamptown ; three field-pieces captured by Ameri- 
cans, March 8. Washington's army wintered at Mori'istown, 
spring of 1777. Skirmish near Morristown with British 
foraging party, February 23. Session of Assembly at Pitts- 
town, January 22 ; adjourned to Haddonfield, 29. " Council 
of Safety" appointed. British occupied Philadelphia, Sep- 
tember 26. Skirmish at Piscataway, May 10. Presbyterian 
church at New Brunswick destroyed by British. Nassau Hall 
at Trenton occupied by British troops. New Brunswick evac- 



268 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

uated, June 22. New Jersey evacuated, June 30. General 
Green in Fort Mercer, at Ked Bank, repulsed British under 
Count Don op, October 22. Fort Mercer evacuated, Novem- 
ber 18. " New Jersey Gazette," first newspajjer in the State, 
published at Burlington, December 3. National day of thanks- 
giving and praise, December 18. 

1778. Salem occupied by 500 British from Pliiladelphia, February 20 ; 

held for several days ; captured by Mahwold, March 17. 
Philadelphia evacuated by the British, June 18. Battle of 
Monmouth Court-house, June 28. British took possession of 
Burlington, May 16. Assembly adopted "Articles of Confed- 
eration." French fleet arrived in the Delaware, July 8. 
Skirmish at Alloway's creek, March. Massacre of cavalry 
regiment at Harrington by British, September. 

1779. "New Jersey Journal" first published at Chatham ; removed to 

Elizabethtown, 1786. Citizens of Burlington seized by British 
and confined at Bordentown, January 25. Tory parties plun- 
der and murder citizens in Bergen county. American ai'my 
"Xj wintered at Morristown, December. 

1780. British regiment from New York crossed Passaic river on the ice 

and burned Newark Academy, January 25. General Knyp- 
hausen with 5000 men landed at Elizabethtown and destroyed 
Connecticut Farms, June 7. General Clinton with 5000 
troops landed at Elizabethtown, drove back Americans under 
General Greene at Springfield, and burned town of 50 houses, 
June 23. Privateer "Governor Livingston" built and fitted 
out at Bordentown. Patriotic ladies organized committees in 
every county to receive donations for sufTering soldiers, July 4. 
781. Eev. James Caldwell shot at Elizabethtown, November 24. ■ 

1782. Preliminary treaty of peace signed at Paris, November 30. New 

Brunswick captured by 300 British, October 19. 

1783. Cessation of hostilities agreed on, January 20. Congress, by 

proclamation, declared the cessation of hostilities, April 11. 
\ General Washington proclaimed peace to the American army, 
"April 19. Treaty of peace signed at Paris, September 3. 
Proclamation issued, October 18. Disbanding army, Novem- 
ber 3. Washington issued a farewell order to his army, No- 
vember 2. Congress recommended the second Thursday in 
December as a day of thanksgiving and prayer. 



V 



APPENDIX. 269 

1784. New Brunswick incorporated. Metliodist church consecrated at 
Salem; probably the first in the State. New Brunswick Theo- 
logical Seminary established by the Dutch Reformed Church. 

1787. National Constitution adopted by convention in Philadelphia, 

September 17. Adopted unanimously by Assembly of New 
Jersey, December 18, without amendment. First Presbyte- 
rian congregation in Newark founded. 

1788. Presbyterian Synod of New York and New Jersey established. 

1789. General Washington crowned with flowers by ladies of Trenton 

on bridge over the Delaware, April. Committee of Congress 
j received him at Elizabethtown and escorted him to New York, 
\{ where he was inaugurated the first President of the United 
States, April 30. Twenty-four congregations of Dutch Re- 
formed Church in New Jersey. 

1790. Trenton made the capital of the State. Death of Governor 

Livingston. First forge to refine iron built in Sussex on the 
Paulinskill. 

1791. Six post-offices in New Jersey: Newark, Elizabethtown, Bridge- 

ton (Rahway), New Brunswick, Princeton and Trenton. 
Quarto edition of the Bible printed at Trenton. "Society for 
the Establishment of Useful Manufactures" incorporated. 

1792. Paterson founded by an association for the manufacture of cotton 

cloths, capital $200,000. Trenton incorporated, November 13. 
Presbyterian church organized at Bridgeton. 

1793. First yarn spun at Patei-son. 

1794. First factory built at Paterson, and calico goods first printed in 

New Jersey. Teacher employed to instruct the factory chil- 
dren on Sundays ; probably the first Sunday-school in the 
State. 

1795. National day of thanksgiving appointed by President Washing- 

ton, February 19. Bridge built over the Raritan opposite 
New Brunswick. 

1798. Inter-State traffic in slaves forbidden by Legislature, March 14. 

Counties authorized by Assembly to build poor-houses. 
,1800. Wom.en first voted in New Jersey at the Elizabethtown munici- 
pal election. 

1802. Women vote at Hunterdon for members of Legislature. 

1804. "An act for the gradual abolition of slavery," preventing the 
future enslavement of infants, to go into operation April 7, 
23 « 



270 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

passed February 15. Delaware and Earitan canal projected 
and route examined by citizens. Newark Bank and Insurance 
Company chartered; the iirst in the State. 

180G. Act passed authorizing the erection of new court-house and jail 
in Essex county, and allowing " the inhabitants" of the county 
to vote thereon, November 5. 

1807. Under act of 1806 women voted. Election set aside on account 
of frauds. Act passed confining right of suffrage to white 
male citizens, November 16. 

1809. Bible Society formed in New Jersey for the gratuitous distribu- 
tion of the Scriptures. 

1812. Princeton Theological Seminary established by the Presbyterian 

Church. Library founded. War declared with Great Britain, 
June 19. 

1813. Princeton incorporated. "The Quarterly Theological and Ke- 

ligious Depository" established at Burlington. National fast- 
day for the restoration of peace, second Thursday in September. 

1814. National fast-day, January 15. Lambertville bridge erected over 

the Delaware by a stock company. Treaty of peace between 
the United States and Great Britain, December 24. $500 ap- 
propriated in Newark for schooling poor children, 

1816. First establrshment of State school-fund of $15,000, February 9. 

1818. Methodist congregation formed in Perth Amboy. Trustees of 
school-fund first appointed, February 12. 

1820. Jersey City incorporated, January 28. Act authorizing town- 
ships to raise money to educate poor children, May 22. 

1822. Legislature authorized survey for Morris canal, from the Dela- 

ware to the Hudson, 100 miles, November 15. 

1823. Legislative commissioners survey route of Delaware and Raritan 

canal. Paterson contains three extensive woolen and two 
duck factories. 

1824. Incorporation of private company to build Morris canal. 

1825. Morris canal commenced. "The Biblical Eepertory and Theo- 

logical Keview" established at Princeton. 

1827. Internal improvement convention held at Princeton. Act passed 

authorizing townships to raise money to build and repair 
school-houses, March 3. 

1828. Delaware breakwater authorized by Congress. Taxes on incor- 

porated companies transferred to schnol-fund, March 5. 



APPENDIX. 



271 



1829. Erection of monument at Eed Bank. 

1830. West Jersey railroad incorporated. Camden and Amboy rail- 

road incorporated, February 4. Joint-stock company author- 
ized to build Delaware and Raritan canal, February 4. Free 
school maintained at Burlington chiefly by rent of Mateni- 
cunk Island. 

1831. Delaware and Earitan canal consolidated with the Camden and 

Amboy company. Morris canal built to Newark, 90 miles, 
August. Trenton Falls company incorporated, capital $200,- 
000, February 16. Camden incorporated. Paterson and Hud- 
son railroad incorporated and work commenced, January. 
Fort Mifiiin destroyed by fire. Money apportioned to all 
schools, public, private and sectarian, February 16. 

1832. Legislature appropriated $2000 to extinguish all Indian titles to 

land. New Jersey railroad incorporated. 

1833. Morris canal built to Newark. 

1834. Paterson railroad built from Bergen Hill to Paterson. Delaware 

and Raritan canal built. 

1835. Morris and Essex raih'oad incorporated. 

1836. Geological report on the State marl-beds made to Legislature by 

Henry D. Rogers. Delaware and Morris canal from Easton 
to Jersey City finished. New Jersey railroad opened, June. 
Burlington and Mount Holly, Belvidere and Delaware rail- 
roads incorporated. 

1837. Camden and Amboy railroad finished. 

1838. New .Jersey State educational convention held at Trenton, Janu- 

ary 27, 28. Trenton and New Brunswick railroad commenced, 
June. Destructive fire at Newark. 

1840. New Jersey Historical Society founded at Trenton, February 27. 

1844. Present Constitution of New Jersey adopted, August. Perth 
Amboy incorporated, February 27. Marble monument erected 
to Rev. James Caldwell, Elizabeth town. School superintend- 
ent first authorized, April 4. 

1846. Burlington College established. Town superintendents of schools 
first authorized, April 7. Newark Library Association 
foimded. 

1848. State Lunatic Asylum at Trenton opened. May 15. 

1849. New Jersey's contributions for the famishing poor of Ireland, 

$45,000. 



272 HISTORY OF NEW JERSEY. 

1850. House of Refuge authorized by Act, February 23. 

1851. Legislature divides $80,000 among the counties for the use of 

schools. 

1852. State lands near Paterson sold for the benefit of school-fund, 

March 25. 

1854. Geological survey of State commenced, July. Teachers' insti- 

tutes legalized, March 3. Camden and Atlantic railroad 
completed. 

1855. State Normal school established at Trenton. 

1856. State Normal-school building erected, March 17 ; school opened, 

October 8. "P^arnum Preparatory School" founded at Beverly 
by Paul Farnum. 

1857. State Model School established. 

1860. State Union Convention met at Trenton, December 11. 

1861. Governor Olden issued j)roclamation for four militia regiments, 

April 17. Union meeting at Newark, April 16. Four regi- 
ments New Jersey volunteers, under Brigadier General Kun- 
yon, despatched to Annapolis, May 3. Judge Ogden defined 
treason as "giving aid, comfort or information to the enemies 
of the government," May 7. Contributions of private citizens 
of the State amount to $1,000,000, May 7. Splendid flag 
raised over the residence of Lieutenant-General Scott by citi- 
zens of Elizabethtown, May 29. Banks loaned the governor 
money to equip troops. Common Council of Newark voted 
$100,000 to families of soldiers, and $5000 for equipments. 
Extra session of Legislature, April 30. State expended in 
equipping thirteen regiments $665,303, and appropriated 
$2,000,000 for war purposes. 

1862. Kecruiting camps established at Trenton, Beverly, Freehold, 

Newark and Flemington, July 7. August 4, quota of 10,478 
nine-months' men required. Delaware and Raritan railroad 
declared a military and post road, December. 

1864. Legislature appropriated annual interest of public-land scrip to 

the " Scientific School of Rutgers College ;" opened, 1865, at 
New Brunswick. " New Jersey College for the benefit of 
Agriculture and the Mechanic Arts" established, April 4 ; 
opened, September, 1865. 

1865. Model and Normal school buildings at Trenton purchased by 

the State, February 2. "State Reform School for Juvenile 



APPENDIX. 273 

Offenders" established. Surrender of General Lee and end 
of the rebellion, April 8. "Soldiers' Children's Home" in- 
corporated at Trenton, March 20 : $5000 appropriated for its 
support, April 6 ; $8000 donated by the Camden and Amboj 
railroad and Delaware and Earitan canal. 

1866. Constitutional amendment, Article XIII., ratified by Legislature, 

April 13. Article XIV. ratified, September 11. Celebration 
of the two hundredth anniversary of the settlement of Newark, 
May 17. " State Board of Education" established, March 20. 
Professorship of Geology and Physical Geography endowed in 
College of New Jersey by grant of $30,000 by John I. Blair ; 
and $85,000 additional advanced for its support. Agricultural 
Society authorized to purchase real estate and locate at New- 
ark. Home for disabled soldiers established at Mount Pleas- 
ant, Newark. $5000 appro[)riated to remove bodies of soldiers 
from Maryland battle-fields to Antietam Cemetery. State ap- 
propriation to sectarian schools discontinued, April 5. 

1867. Census taken of children between five and eighteen ; whole num- 

ber, 230,518. 

1868. School-fund appropriation, $100,000. Legislative commission 

appointed to collect data for reorganizing the State prison. 
S 



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